Tag Archive for: move to Grand Junction Colorado

Retirement Weather Expectations Redefined When You live in Grand Junction

When considering a retirement destination, people often focus on housing, proximity to family, cost of living, access to healthcare, quality of life, state tax rates, winter weather, and even job opportunities. However, the one aspect that often tops the retirement location list is mild winter weather. Regardless of your personal reasoning, I urge you to explore why the winter weather in Grand Junction stands out as an ideal location for retirement.

Winter Weather in Grand Junction

For many retirees, the idea of escaping harsh winter conditions is a key factor in choosing a new home. Grand Junction, nestled in the heart of the Grand Valley, boasts winters that are mild in temperature and snowfall compared to other parts of the country. Unlike regions with challenging winters, the Grand Valley provides a comfortable climate that enhances your retirement experience. Read my post about Grand Junction Weather.

Cold Weather States

In colder weather states, there’s an unspoken expectation that retirees are required to only head to warmer destinations, like Florida or Arizona, to escape winter’s grip. However, Grand Junction challenges this norm. The decision to retire here isn’t solely about avoiding winter; it’s about embracing a balanced lifestyle and experiencing all four seasons. The Grand Valley offers something unique—a place where you can enjoy the benefits of winter without the extremes found in other cold-weather regions. You don’t have to give up winter altogether.

Grand Junction Parade of Lights

Enjoy the Change of Seasons

I was well aware of the mild winters before moving to Grand Junction. It wasn’t until I made the move to Grand Junction that I realized how much I still appreciate the joy of experiencing distinct seasons. Having lived through the brutal winters of Minnesota, I developed a genuine love for the season and winter activities, just not 6-8 months of it!

Retirement in Grand Junction means you can still enjoy the enchantment of snow-covered landscapes and the seasonal activities that winter provides. With ice fishing being a part of my DNA, a quick trip to the Grand Mesa can easily fulfill my desire to be outdoors on “hard water” as we called it in Minnesota.

You can embrace a half day of skiing at Powderhorn Mountain Resort in the morning and an afternoon round of golf at the Redlands Mesa Golf Course in the same day. If that sounds like a great day, then Grand Junction is right for you.

We have enjoyed the Fruita Parade of Lights and the Grand Junction Parade of Lights without freezing. In fact, I recommend the extremely chocolatey Polar Express hot chocolate from Main Street Bagels, only available the day of the Grand Junction Parade of Lights.

Sunshine Year Round

One of the standout features of Grand Junction is the abundance of sunshine throughout the year. I believe the stat is 300+ days of sunshine? Unlike the gloomy winters experienced in some states, the Grand Valley enjoys a remarkable amount of sunshine. No more seasonal depression brought on by cloudy grey skies here. Yay Colorado desert!

Warm But Not Too Hot

You might consider New Mexico, Nevada, or Arizona as your warm weather destination. But those places can be really hot! Almost unbearably so. I had a friend move from Minnesota to AZ with her husband after she retired. Every summer she spent indoors to be in the air conditioning. Similar to when Minnesota residents “hibernate” until spring. It was too hot for her to enjoy Arizona year-round. She ended up moving back to Minnesota.

It gets warm in Grand Junction but not so hot that you can’t enjoy the summer outdoors. Yes, you have to keep yourself hydrated and be aware of how you feel if you go up in the higher elevations (read my post about Avoiding Altitude Sickness). But it’s a “dry heat”. Read what it means to be in the Colorado desert on my Grand Junction Weather post. We don’t have the high humidity like the southeastern United States.

Redefining Retirement Expectations

Grand Junction, with its mild winters, abundant sunshine, and a perfect balance of seasons, challenges the traditional notion of needing a warm destination for retirement. If you’re ready to redefine your retirement expectations and embrace a diverse and enjoyable lifestyle, consider living in Grand Junction as your next home.

The Grand Valley has something to offer everyone, making it a truly special place to begin this new chapter of your life. Please connect with me early in your destination search and allow me to show you all the Grand Valley can offer.

Read my posts about the many reasons to choose Fruita, Grand Junction or Palisade. I can help you find just the right property in Mesa County.

Let me help you, Move to Grand Junction!

We’ve been waiting for you!

Text/Call 612-306-9558 with your questions.

Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE

In November, we rented a Polaris RZR ATV and got to ride on trails all day in Moab, UT. We went to Uranium Arch and other great spots. A fantastic winter activity with family and friends! It was a little muddy the day we went because it had just snowed, but it was so beautiful!

by Paul Aspelin, REALTOR

Fruita, Grand Junction, Palisade, Property Taxes and Land Ownership, Retire in Grand Junction

Property Tax Programs for Colorado Seniors

For seniors who live in Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and the entire state of Colorado, navigating the intricacies of property taxes can be a significant concern. The good news is that there are property tax programs for Colorado seniors to alleviate some of the financial pressures of homeownership.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into these programs, and how they can help older residents manage their property tax burdens. Although I personally still have some time before turning 65, these programs were some things my wife and I investigated when considering our move to Grand Junction, CO.

I also have my Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation. It shows that as a REALTOR® I am able to meet the special needs of maturing Americans when selling, buying, relocating, or refinancing residential or investment properties. By earning the SRES® designation, I am prepared to serve mature clients with the best options and information for them to make life-changing decisions.

Property Tax Relief Programs for Colorado Seniors

Colorado offers several property tax relief programs tailored to its senior citizens. These programs provide much-needed financial support to seniors who may be struggling with property tax payments.

The Senior Homestead Exemption

The Senior Homestead Exemption is one of the most advantageous property tax programs for Colorado seniors. This program allows homeowners aged 65 or older to exempt 50% of the first $200,000 from the actual value of their primary residence. However, there are also some eligibility requirements:

The qualifying senior must be at least 65 years of age as of January 1 of the year of application.
The qualifying senior must occupy the property as his or her primary residence and be the owner of record and must have done so for at least ten consecutive years prior to January 1 of the tax year. Limited exceptions to the ownership and occupancy requirements are detailed in the qualifications section of the application.

This property tax relief initiative significantly eases the burden for seniors.

Property Tax Deferral for Grand Junction Seniors

Seniors who live in Grand Junction and are facing financial challenges can benefit from the Property Tax Deferral program, specifically designed for their needs. This initiative enables homeowners over the age of 65 to defer payment of their property taxes until the property is sold or ownership is transferred.

Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption

While not exclusive to seniors, the Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption is an essential program to mention, as it can be of great interest to older veterans and Gold Star Spouses. Disabled veterans aged 65 or older may be eligible for property tax exemptions, adding to the available property tax relief programs.

Senior Citizens and Disabled Property Tax Exemption in Grand Junction

Colorado offers a Senior Citizens and Disabled Property Tax Exemption program, further tailored to the state’s older residents. Eligible seniors aged 65 or older, who have owned and resided in their homes for ten consecutive years can benefit from this program, providing significant property tax relief.

Social and Community Benefits for Grand Junction, Colorado Seniors

Aside from property tax programs, it’s important to mention the social and community benefits that make Colorado a desirable place for seniors to retire. Many Colorado communities provide services, discounts, and programs specifically designed for older residents, fostering a sense of belonging and support during their retirement years.

For Colorado seniors, understanding and taking advantage of property tax programs tailored to their needs is crucial. The state’s property tax relief programs, including the Senior Homestead Exemption, Property Tax Deferral, Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption, and the Senior Citizens and Disabled Property Tax Exemption, can significantly reduce property tax burdens.

Colorado’s commitment to its older citizens extends beyond property tax programs, with numerous social and community benefits that enhance the retirement experience. By utilizing these property tax programs and enjoying the supportive community environment, Colorado seniors living in Grand Junction can make the most of their retirement years. As always, please consult with a CPA or qualified Tax Consultant before making any tax related decisions. Use the links provided to read the most current information about property taxes in Colorado.

Call/text me with your questions! I can help access the MARKET VALUE of your Mesa County property.

612-306-9558

Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Serving Mesa County

by Paul Aspelin, REALTOR

Grand Junction, Local or Nearby Attractions, Retire in Grand Junction

Why Choose to Retire in Grand Junction Colorado?

Why Choose to Retire in Grand Junction?

11 Compelling Reasons Why People Choose to Retire in Grand Junction, Colorado by Paul Aspelin, Realtor®

Grand Junction, Colorado, has emerged as a favored retirement destination for various compelling reasons. Many of these apply to people in all stages of life. And it’s not just about moving to Grand Junction, but Fruita and Palisade are fantastic destinations as well as other cities in Mesa County. Check out the whole Grand Valley area.

Before I moved here with my wife, we read about retiring in Grand Junction in a Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine she picked up at the airport. We wanted to learn all about Grand Junction retirement options and benefits.

Did you know that the majority of the population in Mesa County is retirement age? Our median household income and per capita income has been rising since 2017. Mesa County is growing thanks to people migrating here from other states or other regions in Colorado. According to Visit Grand Junction, the number one thing visitors say about Grand Junction is “Your community is so friendly”. Yay! Here’s more to love…

1. Scenic Beauty

Grand Junction boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, including the Colorado National Monument, the Grand Mesa, the Book Cliff mountains and the Colorado River. Its stunning scenery and mild climate create an irresistible lure for retirees. Spring comes early and fall is long, so there’s plenty of time to be outdoors in this dry climate.

2. Abundance of Outdoor Activities

The Grand Valley offers retirees an array of outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, golfing, and more. This ensures an active and fulfilling lifestyle in retirement.

We are told, when Grand Junction has a mild winter, people can golf year-round. You can search online to find the numerous bike shops that rent cruiser bikes and e-bikes. Be sure to walk or ride on the Riverfront Trail that goes from Fruita, through Grand Junction and on to Palisade!

Talbott's Cider Co in Palisade, CO showing variety of hard ciders

I took this picture at Talbott’s Cider Co in Palisade, CO – shows a variety of hard ciders. A must stop on the Fruit and Wine Byway in Palisade

3. Wine Country

Located in the heart of Colorado’s wine country, Grand Junction and Palisade boast 35+ wineries and vineyards, making it an ideal place for retirees who appreciate wine tasting and cultural experiences.

Be sure to investigate the wineries first and choose a winery that offers the type of wine you like. Some specialize in dry wine, fruit wines and wine made from honey!

The Colorado Mountain Wine Fest happens annually in September at Riverbend Park in Palisade. The Colorado Mountain Winefest is not just an event for wine enthusiasts; it’s a celebration of community, cultivation, and the pursuit of excellence in winemaking.

There are many distilleries too offering specialty spirits and hard cider, like Talbott’s Farm Market and Tap Room in Palisade located on the scenic Fruit and Wine Byway.

4. Mild Climate

With over 300 days of sunshine annually, Grand Junction enjoys a mild climate, particularly attractive to those seeking to escape harsh winter weather.

I love the low humidity here in the high desert area of Colorado. I wasn’t expecting what a difference it feels like to have low humidity. Thankfully, it makes being outdoors so much more enjoyable year-round. Great for a Grand Junction retirement!

In fact, it was a 90 degree August day we moved our daughter into her CMU dorm room and we didn’t need to change clothes because we didn’t get that “sticky” feeling! It was eye-opening. However, due to the heat, we did experience one of our new Target purchases melting in the bed of our truck. That was unexpected too!

Read my post about Grand Junction Weather that includes the average high and low temps by month.

5. Affordable Living

Compared to larger cities in Colorado, especially on the front range (Ft. Collins, Boulder, Denver, Colorado Springs area), Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade offer a more affordable cost of living. Housing, utilities, and other expenses are budget-friendly. Read my post about Property Tax savings for seniors and others. They are so much lower here than what we experienced in Minnesota!

I can set you up on an MLS search so you can compare different areas to live within the Grand Valley. I have especially noticed a lower cost for groceries and fresh produce in particular. When you come visit, walk through a City Market and see how it compares to your local grocery store prices.

Luckily for us, Palisade, Grand Junction and Fruita all have wonder Farmers Markets that run during the summer months, amazing produce! And there’s a property tax benefit for those 65+ that is the subject of another post on this website, so look for that!

6. Access to Quality Healthcare

Grand Junction is home to renowned healthcare facilities, including St. Mary’s Medical Center and Community Hospital, ensuring retirees have access to quality healthcare. There is also a hospital in Fruita. St. Mary’s is a regional hospital serving communities 1-2 hours away. Healthcare is Grand Junction’s largest industry, government and Colorado Mesa University are also larger employers in this region.

7. Cultural Vibrancy

Grand Junction offers a vibrant cultural scene with music festivals, art exhibitions, theaters and local events, providing retirees with entertainment and opportunities for engagement. Many locations offer reduced ticket fees. Mesa County Libraries support cultural programs too. Check out my post about Mesa County Libraries.

8. Welcoming Community

The friendly and welcoming community in Grand Junction fosters a strong sense of belonging and connection for retirees. There are many clubs and organizations you can consider, like the Friends of Mesa County Libraries. And it’s easy to fly here thanks to the Grand Junction airport. Read about my airport experience!

Took this photo on our last trip to Arches National Park. We brought our visiting relatives for a tour.

9. Proximity to National Parks

Grand Junction is close to national parks like Arches and Canyonlands in Utah, making it an excellent base for exploring the great outdoors during retirement.

Fun fact, if you want to know how far you are from the Utah border, simply look at the street signs. 25 Mile Road means you are 25 miles from the border. Sorry about the crazy half mile roads like 24 1/2 mile. Unfortunately, I’m not sure why they weren’t more creative when naming the roads around here. Particularly, the really weird ones like F 3/4 road. But I’ll admit, when we visit our friend off of “F ‘n three fourths” we do chuckle saying it out loud.

Sorry to get sidetracked. Moab, Utah is about 1.5 hours away, 90 miles and is a great base for going into Canyonlands or Arches and the local state parks. Additionally, you need to schedule a Timed-Entry into Arches, so visit their website first to make a reservation before you drive there. Ask me about tips for that too!

10. Low Crime Rate

Grand Junction maintains a relatively low crime rate, contributing to retirees’ sense of safety and security. You can learn more by contacting the Grand Junction Police Department directly.

11. Lifelong Learning Opportunities

Retirees in Grand Junction can continue their education through classes at Colorado Mesa University. You can gain access to libraries and cultural institutions. Learn about the CMU Golden Scholars program for persons 60 years of age and over to take courses at a discounted rate without the stress of earning a grade. Learn something new!

Learn more “things to do” in Grand Junction, Colorado on the Visit Grand Junction website. Read what I learned after the first three months of living in Grand Junction, CO. It’s the post with the toilet paper image! And, great for any age, read my experience and tips on the Top Day Trips from Grand Junction, with photos!

In summary, the combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, affordable living, and a welcoming community positions Grand Junction as an appealing destination for retirees. Especially those seeking a high quality of life and an active retirement. Therefore, prospective retirees should conduct thorough research and visit the area to ensure it aligns with their specific preferences and needs. Ask me about planning a Grand Junction retirement!

Learn more on my Get Started page.

Text/Call me with your questions! 612-306-9558

Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Licensed in Colorado and Minnesota

by Paul Aspelin, REALTOR

More to Know, Relocating to Grand Junction

How do I Establish Residency in Colorado?

Here are 11 Essential Steps for to Establish residency in Colorado, specifically in Grand Junction. I know what it’s like to move from another state. Heck, I moved across the country and have some advice on that too. Ask me about our road trip to Colorado from Minnesota and what “leaked” out of our 20′ U-Haul truck.

When you’re planning to establish residency in Colorado, it’s crucial to navigate through a series of steps and factors. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you successfully claim residency when it’s your turn to move to Grand Junction, Fruita or Palisade:

1. Find Your Grand Junction or Grand Valley Home

Our U-Haul Moving Truck coming to Colorado

The initial step is securing a place to live in Grand Junction, Colorado, whether it’s a rented apartment, house, or your own property. Your physical address in the city is a vital element in substantiating your residency. We started out renting so we could look for our next property at our own pace vs house hunting from a distance. I can set you up on an MLS search and send you listings that meet your criteria. The Grand Valley offers a very diverse selection of residential real estate property. Learn more on my Get Started page.

2. Update Your Driver’s License

Within 30 days of your move to Colorado, update your driver’s license with the Colorado Department of Revenue’s Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). To establish Colorado residency, head to our local DMV office in downtown Grand Junction on Spruce Street to complete the necessary paperwork, and pay the required fees. Bring your checkbook if you want to avoid the extra 3% fee for paying by credit card. Oh, and go online to make your appointment right away. We had to wait 2 weeks to get an appointment.

3. Register to Vote

To solidify your residency in Colorado, register to vote in Grand Junction via the Colorado Secretary of State website. Cities in the Grand Valley I serve are in Mesa County. You can register to vote online or have them mail you a paper form. Now I will say, it seemed like we got registered automatically after getting our Colorado driver’s licenses. We got a letter in the mail a week after our visit to the DMV saying we were registered to vote.

4. Change Your Vehicle Registration

Check out my custom license plate!

If you own a vehicle, modify its registration to Colorado and obtain Colorado license plates through the DMV. Mesa County Motor Vehicle Department website. Colorado residents can get a $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass when registering a car, motorcycle, recreation vehicle or light truck through the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Also known as the Colorado State Parks pass. The parks pass goes with the vehicle, not the individual. It’s a sticker on your license plate. Learn more about the parks pass. Colorado State Park pass is normally $80/year, so buying it with your registration is quite a savings!

5. Establish Financial Connections

Another step in establishing Colorado residency is to open a bank account in Mesa County and ensure your mailing address aligns with your new residence. Update your utility bills, insurance, and other financial documents to reflect your Grand Junction address. I recommend you first update the billing address on your credit card before you start changing other addresses because if you need to pay for something regarding your address change with a credit card, it won’t process if the addresses don’t match. There are a lot of wonderful local banks in the area. Ask me how I like the community focused bank we chose.

6. Utilize Local Services

Start using local services, such as healthcare providers, dentists, and other professionals, to build local connections. If you are a business owner or self-employed, consider the Chamber of Commerce in Grand Junction, Fruita or Palisade. There are mentor programs for new residents who work from home.

7. Notify Your Employer

If you’re relocating to Grand Junction, CO for work, inform your employer about your new address and Colorado residency. They may need to adjust your tax withholdings accordingly. I highly recommend you consult with a tax advisor prior to your move. Colorado has a very competitive income tax rate among other tax benefits.

8. File State Taxes

After establishing residency in Colorado, remember to file your state income taxes in Colorado and the state you moved from in the year you moved. Again, for your first year here, consult with a tax advisor to make sure you know all of the local tax benefits of living in Mesa County, Colorado.

9. Engage in the Community

Show your commitment to the community by getting involved in local clubs, attending community events, and engaging with your neighbors. There are so many things going on in the Grand Valley. Seek out websites, social media accounts like Facebook and Instagram feeds to see what’s going on. We were up on the Grand Mesa one fall weekend and stumbled upon an Octoberfest celebration at Powderhorn Ski Resort. It was an unexpected surprise. We marked our calendars to watch for it next year so we can make plans to attend again. The Mesa is one of the best places to be to see fall colors. And they change earlier than here in the valley.

10. Maintain Records

Keeping records of your residency-establishing activities is crucial. Store copies of bills, rental agreements, voter registration documents, and other pertinent records as proof of residency.

11. Seek Professional Advice

Depending on your specific situation, it’s wise to consult with legal or tax professionals to ensure you meet all the requirements for establishing residency. My wife interviewed a local attorney to help establish a new business in Colorado and register her marketing company as a foreign entity so she could keep her official business registration in Minnesota but work here in Colorado and pay the much lower Colorado income tax rate vs Minnesota income tax rate. Ask me about moving your business here, especially if you are self-employed.

It’s worth noting that the process of establishing residency can differ based on individual circumstances and state-specific requirements. For the most accurate and up-to-date guidelines, always consult the relevant state and local authorities.

Let me know what questions you have. We are happy to share our experience of moving to Grand Junction and how we have worked through the above list to establish residency in Colorado.