Rent to Own Homes in Boulder

When they aren't getting lost on mountain trails, many locals spend time at the Boulder Reservoir. Swimming is allowed in certain areas during designated times, or you can rent a boat and spend some time on top of the water. This is also a popular place for family reunions and other large social gatherings.

When Tuesdays roll around, you'll have to head to Scott Carpenter Park to find the most active Boulder residents. They're all lighting up their bicycles and heading out for the weekly Boulder Cruiser Ride. This community event encourages neighborhood bonding and is simply a fun way to spend a Tuesday night. This is just one example of how hard the Boulder City Council works to create a friendly, peaceful living environment for all residents.

For those more in tune with the classroom than Mother Nature, this home-rule municipality in Boulder County is also home to the University of Colorado's main campus. You may also enjoy attending performances at the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra.

Buying a Home in Boulder

The housing market in Boulder is aggressive, and you can expect to pay over $300,000 even for a townhome or condo in the best neighborhoods. If you're looking at single-family homes, take advantage of the city's Permanently Affordable Homes program as well as state and federal programs that reduce the down payment for many first-time home buyers. While these programs may limit the number of homes that you're qualified to buy, they can make the difference between a 20-percent down payment and a 3-percent down payment.

Popular Neighborhoods in Boulder

For families and singles interested in a quiet neighborhood with a low crime rate, Wonderland Hills is a popular option. Centered on Wonderland Lake and its many recreational trails, the neighborhood features spacious single-family homes positioned on large lots. You can expect prices around $400,000 for most single-family homes in the neighborhood, and some of the best public schools are located nearby. While this community feels secluded from the rest of Boulder, the homes are a short drive or bus ride away from many shopping and dining opportunities.

If you want to live in a quiet neighborhood while walking downtown in minutes, Whittier is a prestigious neighborhood to consider. The single-family homes often sell for more than a million dollars, but you get a large home with beautiful architectural details for that price. The neighborhood also features wide, tree-lined roads and sizable lots. If you can afford homes in the million-dollar range, you might as well check out Mapleton Hill as well.

Buying vs. Rent to Own Homes

A rent-to-own agreement allows you to rent a home for at least one year with the intention of purchasing the property before the end of your contract. In many cases, a portion of your monthly payments will count toward your future down payment, and the current owner may cover the maintenance expenses while you're in the rental phase. Once you secure a home loan, you have the right to make the home yours officially. If you're ready to move now but need some time to get your financial details in order, this is a good option to secure a home in Boulder.

Cost of Living in Boulder

The cost of living in Boulder is approximately 50 percent higher than the national average. This is mostly due to the inflated housing index, which is often more than double the national average. Most residents pay slightly less than average prices for transportation and utilities, while the costs of healthcare and groceries are about equal to national averages. The biggest expense for most residents is housing.

Summary

From skiing in the winter to hiking and swimming in the summer, it's easy to enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle when you make your home at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Boulder offers some of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Colorado, including large homes positioned on oversized lots that sit on tree-lined residential roadways. As home to the University of Colorado, you'll also find a variety of affordable housing options for students in select areas of the city.