05.25.22 HAB PacketCITY OF BOULDER
HOUSING ADVISORY BOARD MEETING AGENDA
DATE: May 25, 2022
TIME: 6 PM
LOCATION: Zoom Meeting – link posted day of meeting
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL / 6:00 p.m.
2. AGENDA REVIEW
3. WELCOME NEW PLANNING BOARD LIAISONS
a. John Gerstle
b. Mark McIntyre (alternate)
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a. April 27, 2022 – See attached
5. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION / 6:05 p.m.
a. Open comment
6. MATTERS FROM THE BOARD / 6:10 p.m.
a. Affordable Homeownership Program Overview (Informational Item)
o Eric Swanson, Homeownership Program Manager
10-minute Presentation followed by Q&A
o 2019 Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey – Summary of Results, prepared by RRC
Associates – See attached
b. Letter to Council urging action on TVAP Phase II and the Planning Reserve (Decision)
o Review and potentially finalize draft letter from the Chairs – Email from Chairs
c. July HAB Retreat (Feedback)
7. MATTERS FROM STAFF / 8:40 p.m.
o Regional Affordable Housing Implementation proposal
o Council Study Session (Oct. 27) to discuss middle income homeownership regarding an
update to the Inclusionary Housing program and implementation of the Downpayment
Assistance Pilot
8. DEBRIEF MEETING AND CALENDAR CHECK / 8:50 p.m.
9. ADJOURNMENT / 9:00 p.m.
Informational Item: Updates and education; no action to be taken
Feedback: Discussion of board processes and items of interest; may result in action
Input: Discussion and comments to shape staff work on housing issues, projects and policies; no action to be taken
Decision: Vote on board processes, work plan, agenda items, etc.
Recommendation: Vote on the board’s input to city council
For more information, please contact the HAB Secretary at 303.441.3097, or via Email at bollert@bouldercolorado.gov. Board
agendas are available online at: https://bouldercolorado.gov/boards-commissions/housing-advisory-board. Please note agenda item
times are approximate.
HOUSING ADVISORY BOARD
Summary Minutes: 04/27/22
Virtual (Zoom)
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:
Michael Leccese, Chair
Daniel Teodoru, Vice Chair
Julianne Ramsey
Juliette Boone
Philip Ogren
Jennifer Livovich
Terry Palmos
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT:
Jay Sugnet
Tiffany Boller
Corina Marin
1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL 6:01pm
Leccese declared a quorum at 6:01pm
2. WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBERS
Leccese welcomed Julianne Ramsey and Philip Ogren
3. AGENDA REVIEW
4. APPROVAL OF March 30, 2022 MINUTES
Boone motioned to approve minutes, Palmos seconded – approved 7-0
5. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Mark Fearer – brought concerns about rent control
6. MATTERS FROM COUNCIL
a. East Boulder Subcommunity Plan (Recommendation)
• Leccese opened floor for discussion
• Teodoru motioned - “The Housing Advisory Board unanimously supports the plan and
appreciates all the staff and community effort that went into the plan and recommends
that Planning Board and City Council adopt the East Boulder Subcommunity Plan.” –
Seconded by Palmos, board voted 7-0 to approve
• Leccese to email support for adoption to planning board and city council on
behalf of HAB
7. MATTERS FROM THE BOARD
a. Chair / Vice Chair Annual Elections (Decision)
Boone motioned to elect Leccese for chair, Teodoru seconds - Board votes 7-0 to
approve Leccese as Board Chair
Palmos motioned to elect Teodoru as Vice chair, Boone seconds Nomination
Board votes 7-0 to approve Teodoru as Vice Chair
b. Jan. 22 Boulder City Council Retreat Outcomes Discussion continued
• Area III Planning Reserve – urge council to move forward with hiring consultant
and provide guidelines on how to involve community with a plan/vision. Leccese
recommended HAB add topic to next month’s meeting to discuss in more detail
and make recommendation.
• ADUs – HAB supports the implementation of more ADUs. Boone recommended
presentation on economic impact. Add topic to next months agenda to discuss in
more detail for possible vote on recommendation on policy to increase ADUs in
Boulder.
• (TVAP) Transit Village Area Plan (Boulder Junction) Part II – board agreed there
needs to be improvement with retail, character, design, and transit in next phase.
Add item to next months agenda and make formal recommendation on this topic.
• Board would like to request future presentation on transit and housing density.
Ogren would like to explore possible developments regarding “car light living”
8. MATTERS FROM STAFF
a. Sugnet – Planning board will be meeting Thursday to appoint new ex-officio
b. Sugnet – Brought to board’s attention the shift to start meeting in person in June
• HAB to return to in-person/hybrid meetings in June: o Leccese - in person o Livovich - home o Ramsey - in person o Ogren - in person o Palmos - in person o Teodoru - hybrid o Boone – home/hybrid (listening sessions in-person)
c. Sugnet – explained update to Affordable Housing Dashboard
9. DEBRIEF MEETING AND CALENDAR CHECK
Leccese – Possible agenda items:
• Make recommendations on planning reserve and Boulder Junction
• Presentation on ADUs and current policies for a future recommendation
• Update on deed-restricted for-sale homes in Boulder
Next meeting – Wednesday, May 25th
10. ADJOURNMENT Teordoru motion to adjourn, second by Leccese 8:02pm
APPROVED BY
_________________________________
Board Chair
_________________________________
DATE
1
SUMMARY OF RESULTS
PREPARED FOR CITY OF BOULDER HOUSING & HUMAN SERVICES
PREPARED BY RRC ASSOCIATES, APRIL 24, 2019
REVISED MAY 15, 2019
2019 BOULDER AFFORDABLE
HOMEOWNER SURVEY
2
OUTLINE
•Methodology
•Respondent housing & demographic characteristics
•Housing satisfaction
•Home purchase decision factors
•Financial security & housing costs
•Summary of major themes
3
METHODOLOGY
Survey distribution
1.Mail: Survey mailed to 727 affordable homeowners in early March (full list).
▪10 returned as undeliverable; 717 presumed delivered (98.6%).
▪Survey included online response option at www.boulderhousingsurvey.com.
▪Random drawing for one of three $50 gift certificates offered as thank you/incentive.
2.Email: Email invitation to subgroup of 673 owners on March 27. Reminder on April 2.
Survey response
•385 total responses
•196 online responses (51%), 189 mailback responses (49%)
•Response rate 53.0%
•95% confidence interval +/-3.4%
4
RESPONDENT HOUSING &
DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS
5
HOUSING TYPE
▪Majority of respondents lived in condos (57%), followed by townhouse or duplex homes (22%),
and single-family homes (20%).
▪Graphs throughout this presentation illustrate both the overall results (all respondents), and
results segmented by overall satisfaction with home.
▪57% of respondents are “very satisfied” with their home; 34% are “somewhat satisfied;”
and 10% are “neutral,” “somewhat dissatisfied” or “very dissatisfied.”
Note: The charts in this report break out the results by respondents’ overall satisfaction with their home. Overall, 10% of respondents are “very dissatisfied,”
“somewhat dissatisfied,” or “neutral” about their home; 34% are “somewhat satisfied;” and 57% are “very satisfied” (these results are also shown graphically in
slide 16). The portion of the graph outlined above shows the results / opinions of these respective groups. For example, among respondents who are “very
satisfied” with their home, 55% live in a condo, and 20% in a townhouse / duplex. Of respondents who are “dissatisfied/neutral,” 60% live in a condo.
6
BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS
▪Respondents have an average of 2.1 bedrooms and 1.8 bathrooms.
7
LOCATION OF HOME
▪Respondents live in a variety of complexes, led by Dakota Ridge (11%), Northfield Commons
(9%), Holiday Neighborhood (8%), and Northfield Village (7%).
8
AGE OF RESPONDENT
▪Respondents have a diversity of ages, primarily distributed from 25 to 74.
9
HOUSEHOLD INCOME
▪Respondents have a diversity of household incomes, with a median of approximately $56,000,
and an average of approximately $61,000.
10
RACE AND ETHNICITY
▪Most respondents are White (82%+) and non -Hispanic (89%+).
11
LONG-TERM DISABILITY
▪12% of respondents have a household member with a long-term disability.
12
TIME IN BOULDER VALLEY
▪Respondents have lived in their residence for a diversity of time (with similar shares 1-5 years, 5-10 years, and 10-20 years).
▪Most respondents have lived 10+ years in the Boulder Valley (73%).
▪Most respondents plan on staying in the Boulder Valley for a considerable period of time (79% 10+ years).
13
PERSONS, WORKERS, RETIREES & CHILDREN IN HOUSEHOLD
▪Respondents have an average of 2.1 people per household, of whom 1.3 are employed.
▪15% of respondent households have retirees, and 35% have children aged 17 or under.
14
PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT OF WORKERS IN HH
▪Among households with employed persons, an average of 0.97 people work in the City of
Boulder, 0.23 people work at home at least 50% of the time, and 0.35 people commute
elsewhere.
15
HOUSING SATISFACTION
16
OVERALL SATISFACTION WITH HOME
▪Most respondents are “very satisfied” (57%) or “somewhat satisfied” (34%) with their home.
▪10% are “neutral,” “somewhat dissatisfied” or “very dissatisfied.”
17
SATISFACTION WITH ASPECTS OF HOME
▪Respondents express highest satisfaction with selected locational aspects of home, e.g. bike path/trail
access (75% very satisfied), location of home -all things considered (74%), & proximity to open space (65%).
▪Satisfaction is lowest for storage space (34% very/somewhat dissatisfied) and sound levels (22% very/
somewhat dissatisfied).
18
SATISFACTION WITH ASPECTS OF HOME:
COMPARISONS BY OVERALL SATISFACTION WITH HOME
▪Respondents who rate their overall satisfaction with their home as “very satisfied” also tend to express the highest
levels of satisfaction with specific attributes of their home. Conversely, those who are “dissatisfied/neutral” tend
to express the lowest satisfaction.
▪The narrowest gaps between “very satisfied” and “dissatisfied/neutral” residents tend to be for locational aspects
of the home, e.g. bike path/trail access, proximity to bus stops, proximity to schools, etc.
▪The widest gaps between “very satisfied” and “dissatisfied/neutral” residents tend to be for other attributes, e.g.
sound levels (1.4 point gap), overall cost of home (1.4 pt), type of home (1.2 pt), energy efficiency (1.2 pt), size of
home (1.0 pt), layout/design of home (1.0 pt), storage space (0.9 pt), and sense of safety (0.8 pt).
Average satisfaction rating
(1=Very dissatisfied / 3=Neutral / 5=Very satisfied)
19
ARE YOU GLAD YOU PURCHASED HOME?
WOULD YOU PURCHASE IT AGAIN?
▪Almost 9 in 10 are glad they purchased their home / would purchase their home again (89%).
▪Respondents who are dissatisfied/neutral about their home are much less likely to do it again (55%) than
those who are somewhat satisfied (86%) or very satisfied (96%).
Would purchase again –any comments on response? (154 comments)
Wouldn’t purchase again –any comments
on response? (41 comments)
20
HAVE THERE BEEN ANY SURPRISES TO
YOU AS A HOMEOWNER?
▪About half of respondents experienced surprises as a homeowner (49%).
▪Respondents who are dissatisfied/neutral about their home are much more likely to have experienced surprises
(91%) than those who are somewhat satisfied (54%) or very satisfied (38%).
(If yes, there have been surprises)
Please describe: (173 comments)
21
LIKELIHOOD OF & REASONS FOR MOVING
▪12% plan to move within the next five years, and additional 31% might move.
▪Top reasons for moving: live in larger home (45%), want detached home (35%), change in
family/personal situation (35%).
▪Respondents who are dissatisfied/neutral about their home are more likely to say they will move (27%)
than those who are somewhat/very satisfied (11-9%).
22
DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS?
(178 COMMENTS | CLOUD SHOWS WORDS MENTIONED 3 OR MORE TIMES)
▪Respondents expressed a wide range of opinions in often-extensive comments. Many expressed
appreciation and gratitude for the affordable housing program; others cited concerns regarding
HOAs, program rules, appreciation caps, etc. (Slide #38 summarizes comment themes in more detail)
23
HOME PURCHASE DECISION FACTORS
24
IMPORTANT FACTORS IN DECISION
TO PURCHASE HOME
▪A variety of factors were important, led by overall cost of home (80%), location of home
(76%), and size of home (62%).
25
IMPORTANT FACTORS IN DECISION TO PURCHASE
HOME VS. AVERAGE SATISFACTION
▪The items most widely viewed as important are overall cost of home (80%) and location of home (76%).
▪For these two items, satisfaction is very high with location of home (74% very satisfied), and moderately
high with cost of home (54% very satisfied, 25% somewhat satisfied, 21% neutral or dissatisfied).
Lower importance/
higher satisfaction
Lower importance/
lower satisfaction
Higher importance/
higher satisfaction
Higher importance/
lower satisfaction
26
MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR
▪For a majority of owners, the overall cost of the home was the single most important factor
(53%), followed by location of home (20%) and size of home (11%).
27
SECOND MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR
▪The items rated second most important were largely similar to the factors rated most
important, but with different levels of emphasis, led by location of home (26%), overall cost
of the home (23%), size of home (15%), and layout/design of home (11%).
28
TWO MOST IMPORTANT FACTORS
▪For a majority of owners, the overall cost of the home was one of the two most important
factors (75%), followed by location of home (46%), size of home (27%), and layout/design of
home (15%).
29
IMPORTANCE OF BEING IN BOULDER
& OWNING
▪When they were looking for their current home, most owners said it was “extremely
important” for them to be able to buy (81%), and for the home to be located in the City of
Boulder (69%).
30
FINANCIAL SECURITY & HOUSING
COSTS
31
FINANCIAL SECURITY
▪Most respondents feel “somewhat secure” (56%) or “very secure” (27%) about their current financial situation. In
contrast, 17% feel “not too secure” (12%) or “not at all secure” (5%).
▪Most respondents’ sense of financial security has improved since they bought their home (68%), while 17% have
experienced no change, and 14% have experienced a decline.
▪Respondents who are very satisfied with their home are much more likely to say their financial security has
“improved significantly” (43%) than those who are somewhat satisfied (21%) or dissatisfied/neutral (9%).
32
HOUSING COST EXPECTATIONS
▪HOA fees and assessments have been “much more” (32%) or “somewhat more” (33%) than expected for most
respondents (65%).
▪Owners who feel dissatisfied/neutral about their home are more likely to say HOA costs have been “much
more” than expected (65%) than those who are somewhat satisfied (39%) or very satisfied (21%).
▪In contrast, much lower shares say costs have been higher than expected for maintenance and repairs (29%),
utilities (25%), and mortgage payment (7%).
33
COST OF MORTGAGE
▪Among those paying a mortgage, the average monthly mortgage payment is $875 (median
$850).
34
COST OF HOA
▪The large majority of respondents live in an HOA (95%).
▪Among those paying HOA fees, the average monthly cost is $241 (median also $241).
▪Roughly half of respondents living in an HOA have had lump sum special assessments in the
time they’ve owned their home (52%), including a larger 70% of those dissatisfied or neutral
about their home.
35
COST OF UTILITIES
▪The average monthly cost of utilities is $121 (median $100).
36
HOUSING COSTS
▪Summing up mortgage, HOA and utilities, residents are paying an average of $1,234/month
(median $1,225/month).
37
HOUSING COSTS: INCOME RATIO
▪Respondents are paying an average of 29% of their income toward mortgage, HOA monthly
fees, and utilities (median 25%). (Ratio exclude HOA special assessments, out of pocket repairs, etc.)
▪36% of respondents are paying in excess of 30% of their income towards housing.
38
RECAP OF THEMES
•Many positive indicators of satisfaction
•57% very satisfied, 34% somewhat satisfied with home
•89% glad they purchased / would purchase again
•68% have had improved financial security since purchasing
•Most plan to stay in their home for the next 5+ years
•In comments, many respondents express gratefulness, appreciate the ability to stay in Boulder, feel
pride of ownership, less financial stress, home has allowed for life changes, etc.
•Potential areas for improvement / further evaluation
•49% have had surprises as a homeowner
•65% say HOA costs have been higher than expected
•29% say maintenance & repair costs have been higher than expected
•Variety of additional concerns expressed in comments, e.g:
•HOAs: High/increasing HOA costs and assessments, with impacts to affordability and concerns about
resaleability; concerns about HOA management; differing perspectives of free -market & affordable owners
•Limits on appreciation / falling behind market / unable to move to market home / trapped in current unit
•Restrictive program rules, e.g. insufficient incentives for capital improvements & maintenance, limits on
ability to rent short-and long-term, difficult to move to a different home in affordable program, allow for
changes in life circumstances, income limits are restrictive relative to market, etc.
•Poor construction (e.g. defects, finishes; unequal to market units); poor maintenance by previous owner
39
SUMMARY OF RESULTS
THANK YOU!
PREPARED FOR CITY OF BOULDER HOUSING & HUMAN SERVICES
PREPARED BY RRC ASSOCIATES, APRIL 24, 2019
REVISED MAY 15, 2019
2019 BOULDER AFFORDABLE
HOMEOWNER SURVEY
2019 CITY OF BOULDER AFFORDABLE HOMEOWNER SURVEY
APPENDICES
MAY 15, 2019
1. Cover letter & survey questionnaire
2. Crosstabulation tables
3. Comment responses to open-ended questions
PREPARED FOR
CITY OF BOULDER HOUSING & HUMAN SERVICES
PREPARED BY RRC ASSOCIATES
1. Cover Letter & Survey Questionnaire
City of Boulder
Housing & Human Services
1300 Canyon Boulevard ∙ P.O. Box 791 ∙ Boulder, Colorado 80306
303-441-3157 ∙ Fax 720-564-2188 ∙ www.boulderaffordablehomes.com
AFFORDABLE HOMEOWNER
SURVEY
Dear Boulder Affordable Homeowner,
WHAT’S THIS ABOUT? The City of Boulder is evaluating how its affordable
homeownership programs can best serve current and future residents. As a
purchaser/owner of a permanently affordable home, your input is needed so we
can understand how our programs are working and where we can improve.
HOW YOU CAN HELP: You can support this effort by taking a few minutes to
complete the enclosed survey about your experience as a homeowner. This survey
is anonymous and confidential, and results will be tabulated and analyzed by an
independent survey firm, RRC Associates.
ONE RESPONSE: In an attempt to capture as many responses as possible, this
survey is being distributed by mail and e-mail. You might receive this survey more
than once. Please only complete one survey per household.
MAIL OR ONLINE: Either complete the survey on paper and mail it back within
10 days in the enclosed postage-paid envelope, or take the survey online at this
website:
www.BoulderHousingSurvey.com
We appreciate your feedback and thank you for your time!
Sincerely,
Jay Sugnet, Senior Planner
City of Boulder Housing and Human Services
303.441.4057 or sugnetj@bouldercolorado.gov
BOULDER AFFORDABLE HOMEOWNER SURVEY PRIZE ENTRY To enter the prize drawing, detach and enclose this entry form:
First name_______________________________________ Email_______________________________________
OR Daytime Phone_______________________________
THREE winners
will be randomly
selected to each
receive a $50
Visa gift card.
To enter the drawing,
follow the directions
at the bottom of the
page. Or, you can
enter the drawing
after completing the
survey online.
Winners of the
random drawing will
be contacted by
phone and/or email.
Si necesita esta
información en español,
llame al 303-441-3157.
1
City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Instructions and notes:
1. Please complete the survey within 10 DAYS, and return it in the postage-paid envelope provided.
2. You may also complete the survey online at www.BoulderHousingSurvey.com.
3. All results are anonymous and confidential, and will be reported in group form only.
Thank you for your time and participation!
ABOUT YOUR HOME
1. In what type of home do you live?
Single-family home Townhouse / duplex Condo Other: ________________________________
2. How many of the following are in your home? # bedrooms AND # bathrooms
3. How would you rate your Very Somewhat Somewhat Very
overall satisfaction with your home? Dissatisfied Dissatisfied Neutral Satisfied Satisfied
(Circle number which best represents your opinion) 1 2 3 4 5
4. How satisfied are you with the following aspects of your home? (Circle number which best represents your opinion)
And which items were important in your decision to purchase your home? (Check all that apply)
Very Somewhat Somewhat Very Check if item was important
SIZE / DESIGN / COST Dissatisfied Dissatisfied Neutral Satisfied Satisfied in decision to purchase
1. Size of home 1 2 3 4 5
2. Type of home (condo, townhouse, etc.) 1 2 3 4 5
3. Layout / design of home 1 2 3 4 5
4. Storage space 1 2 3 4 5
5. Energy efficiency 1 2 3 4 5
6. Overall cost of home (mortgage, HOA, etc.) 1 2 3 4 5
7. Sound levels (from other units, roads, etc.) 1 2 3 4 5
Very Somewhat Somewhat Very Check if item was important
LOCATION Dissatisfied Dissatisfied Neutral Satisfied Satisfied in decision to purchase
8. Location of home, all things considered 1 2 3 4 5
9. Proximity to bus stops 1 2 3 4 5
10. Bike path/trail access 1 2 3 4 5
11. Proximity to open space 1 2 3 4 5
12. Sense of safety 1 2 3 4 5
13. Proximity to shopping & restaurants 1 2 3 4 5
14. Proximity to schools 1 2 3 4 5
ABOUT YOUR HOME PURCHASE DECISION
5. Which two items were most important in your decision to purchase your home? (Enter numbers from items 1-14 above, or describe if other)
______ Most important (or describe if other: __________________________________________________________________)
______ Second most important (or describe if other: ___________________________________________________________)
6. When you were looking for your current home, how important was it to you for the home to be located in the City
of Boulder?
Extremely important
Very important
Moderately important
Slightly important
Not at all important
2
7. When you were looking for your current home, how important was it to you to be able to buy your home (rather
than rent)?
Extremely important
Very important
Moderately important
Slightly important
Not at all important
8. Have your housing costs been more, less, or about the same as you expected for the following items?
(Check box in each row which best represents your opinion)
Much Somewhat About the Somewhat Much Not
More More Same Less Less Applicable
1. Mortgage payment (principal, interest, taxes, insurance) ...
2. HOA fees and assessments ..................................................
3. Utilities ...................................................................................
4. Maintenance and repairs .....................................................
9. Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
Not at all secure
Not too secure
Somewhat secure
Very secure
Prefer not to respond
10. How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased your home?
Improved significantly
Improved slightly
No change
Declined slightly
Declined significantly
Any comments on your response? _____________________________________________________________________
11. Are you glad that you purchased your home? Would you purchase it again if you had the chance for a “do-over?”
Yes → Any comments? ____________________________________________________________________________
No → Why not? __________________________________________________________________________________
12. Have there been any surprises to you as a home owner, i.e. items you wish you had been better informed about
before purchasing?
Yes → Please describe: ____________________________________________________________________________
No
ABOUT YOUR HOUSEHOLD
13. How many people live in your household, including yourself? ....._______ people, including myself
How many of these persons are currently employed? ......................_______ people, including myself (enter 0 if none)
How many of these persons are retired? .............................................._______ people, including myself (enter 0 if none)
How many of these persons are aged 17 or under? ............................_______ people (enter 0 if none)
3
14. (If any members of your household are currently employed) Where do the employed persons in your household work?
Worker #1 Worker #2 Worker #3 Place of work
......................... ......................... ............ Work at home 50%+ of the time (telecommute, home workshop, etc.)
......................... ......................... ............ City of Boulder
......................... ......................... ............ Longmont / Niwot
......................... ......................... ............ Louisville / Lafayette / Superior / Erie
......................... ......................... ............ Broomfield
......................... ......................... ............ Denver Metro area
......................... ......................... ............ Other: ____________________________________________
15. How long have you lived in your current residence? How long have you lived in Boulder Valley, and how much
longer do you plan on living in the Boulder Valley? (Check one box in each column)
Lived in Current Lived in Will Continue to Live
Residence Boulder Valley in Boulder Valley
Less than 6 months ......................... ........................... ............................
6 months up to 1 year ..................... ........................... ............................
1 up to 5 years.................................. ........................... ............................
5 up to 10 years................................ ........................... ............................
10 up to 20 years .............................. ........................... ............................
More than 20 years ......................... ........................... ............................
16. Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the next five years?
Yes Maybe No
17. (IF YES OR MAYBE) What are the main reasons you plan to move or might move? (Check all that apply)
Live in larger home
Live in smaller home
Live in less expensive home
Live in a nicer home → Please identify what would be nicer:______________________________________________
I live in attached housing (condo, townhouse) and want a detached home
I live in a detached home and want an attached home
I want to rent
I want to buy a market rate unit
I want to move to a different neighborhood or home in Boulder
I want to live in a different city / area – where? ________________________________________________
Change in family/personal situation (e.g. having children, getting married, getting divorced, retirement, etc.)
Other: ____________________________________________________________________________________
FOR GROUPING / STATISTICAL PURPOSES ONLY … (all responses are anonymous & confidential)
18. Which category includes your age?
18 - 24 35 - 44 55 - 64 75 or older
25 - 34 45 – 54 65 - 74 Prefer not to respond
19. Which best describes the total gross annual income of your household (before taxes)?
Less than $30,000 $50,000 to $59,999 $80,000 to $89,999 $120,000 or more
$30,000 to $39,999 $60,000 to $69,999 $90,000 to $99,999 Prefer not to respond
$40,000 to $49,999 $70,000 or $79,999 $100,000 to $119,999
20. What is your current monthly mortgage payment (including property taxes and insurance, if applicable)?
$____________________ monthly OR Mortgage paid off
4
21. Is your home part of a Homeowners Association (HOA)? Yes No Unsure
22. (IF YES) What are your current monthly HOA dues? $_____________ monthly OR Don’t pay HOA dues
23. (IF YES) In the time you have owned your home, have there been any lump sum special assessments ?
No
Yes → Please indicate the approximate year(s) and amount(s) for your unit, and what the assessment was for, if you recall:
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
24. What is your average monthly cost for utilities (electricity, gas, water, sewer, and trash )? (Exclude internet / phone /
cable TV) $____________________ monthly OR Don’t pay, all are included in HOA dues
25. In what neighborhood or complex do you live? _______________________________________ OR Prefer not to respond
26. Are you of Chicano/Chicana/Mexican-American, Latino/Latina, or Hispanic origin?
Yes No Prefer not to respond
27. Which best describes your race ? (Please select all that apply)
White
Asian or Pacific Islander
American Indian, Eskimo or Aleut
Black or African American
Other, please specify: ____________________
Prefer not to respond
28. Does anyone in your household have a long-term disability?
Yes No Prefer not to respond
29. Do you have any other comments or suggestions?
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Thank you for your time and input!
Please return your survey in the enclosed postage-paid envelope.
2. Crosstabulation Tables
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
In what type of home do you
live?
Single-family home
Townhouse / duplex
Condo
Other - Write In
TOTAL
n =
Number of bedrooms in your
home:
0
1
2
3
4
5
TOTAL
Average
n =
Number of bathrooms in your
home:
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
3.5
4
TOTAL
Average
n =
20%100%9%17%23%20%13%14%22%16%10%22%15%20%20%15%19%14%13%24%
22%100%31%21%20%22%25%26%19%26%24%20%27%23%20%28%21%7%27%23%
57%100%60%60%55%56%60%57%57%58%64%57%55%55%57%56%60%79%59%51%
2%2%2%2%3%2%2%2%2%2%2%3%2%1%3%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
381 75 83 216 35 124 212 317 40 167 176 19 42 195 92 118 132 61 53 42 111 204
1%1%3%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%0%
22%3%4%34%22%21%23%23%15%25%21%21%31%24%16%21%22%32%17%24%23%21%
50%23%65%54%56%52%48%49%57%51%50%37%52%45%61%50%50%46%55%64%55%45%
21%46%28%11%11%21%23%21%18%19%21%26%17%24%14%21%20%17%25%10%16%26%
6%26%4%8%3%7%5%8%4%7%16%4%9%7%5%5%4%2%3%8%
1%3%2%0%3%1%1%1%2%2%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
2.1 3.0 2.3 1.7 2.0 2.1 2.1 2.1 2.3 2.0 2.1 2.4 1.9 2.1 2.2 2.1 2.1 2.0 2.2 1.9 2.0 2.2
381 74 83 215 36 124 212 318 40 167 177 19 42 196 92 117 132 63 53 42 112 204
35%24%14%45%39%37%32%36%25%36%33%32%50%35%27%34%37%39%30%45%32%33%
11%11%4%14%14%16%8%11%15%13%10%26%12%9%11%14%8%6%15%7%12%11%
33%28%37%34%25%31%36%32%40%31%36%21%17%35%39%31%35%31%36%33%38%31%
10%11%24%4%6%7%11%10%3%7%10%5%7%10%8%9%7%13%9%10%5%11%
5%10%11%1%14%6%4%4%15%7%5%11%5%5%5%4%5%8%4%9%5%
2%7%4%0%2%3%3%2%2%3%2%3%3%2%3%
4%10%6%2%3%2%6%5%3%5%4%5%10%2%8%5%4%3%6%5%2%6%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
1.8 2.2 2.2 1.6 1.8 1.7 1.9 1.8 1.9 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.7 1.8 2.0 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.7 1.8 1.9
377 72 83 214 36 122 210 314 40 165 175 19 42 192 92 116 130 62 53 42 111 202
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 1
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
How would you rate your
overall satisfaction with your
home?
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
2%1%3%2%22%2%3%4%1%6%3%2%2%2%3%2%2%7%1%2%
3%5%4%36%1%26%7%1%11%5%3%4%3%10%6%10%5%2%
4%3%6%3%42%3%10%7%1%11%5%4%1%1%2%8%8%5%4%3%
34%29%33%35%100%31%41%37%29%44%48%34%23%21%36%46%36%32%50%24%
57%67%54%55%100%63%21%45%69%28%40%57%70%76%55%35%48%46%41%70%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.4 4.6 4.3 4.4 2.2 4.0 5.0 4.5 3.5 4.1 4.7 3.8 4.2 4.4 4.5 4.7 4.4 4.0 4.2 4.0 4.3 4.6
373 73 80 211 36 125 212 311 39 165 174 18 40 190 93 117 127 63 50 41 109 200
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
How satisfied are you with the following
size/design/cost aspects of your home?
And which items were important in your
decision to purchase your home?OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Size of home
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
Type of home (condo,
townhouse, etc.)
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
Layout / design of home
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
1%1%0%6%1%1%2%1%2%2%0%
8%4%14%7%21%15%1%7%15%13%4%11%12%8%8%7%10%2%13%10%12%4%
7%4%5%9%15%10%4%5%15%8%6%22%5%7%8%6%10%6%4%14%10%3%
33%31%33%34%29%41%29%32%43%32%34%28%38%36%25%32%29%44%32%38%38%31%
51%60%48%50%29%33%65%55%28%46%55%39%43%49%60%55%49%48%51%36%40%61%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.3 4.5 4.1 4.3 3.6 3.9 4.6 4.3 3.8 4.1 4.4 3.9 4.1 4.3 4.4 4.4 4.1 4.4 4.2 4.0 4.1 4.5
367 70 80 208 34 117 207 315 40 167 174 18 42 194 92 118 129 62 53 42 110 203
1%1%2%6%2%0%1%5%2%1%2%2%1%2%2%5%2%0%
7%1%6%9%29%11%1%5%20%11%3%22%14%5%5%3%8%2%19%10%14%3%
11%1%12%13%12%20%5%10%13%14%9%6%14%12%10%9%11%15%8%24%11%7%
31%10%38%35%29%44%23%30%35%32%29%28%31%34%25%30%27%46%25%29%41%26%
50%87%42%41%24%24%69%53%28%41%58%44%38%48%59%56%52%36%49%33%33%62%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.2 4.8 4.1 4.0 3.4 3.8 4.6 4.3 3.6 4.0 4.4 3.9 3.9 4.2 4.4 4.4 4.2 4.1 4.0 3.8 3.9 4.5
365 68 81 207 34 117 205 315 40 166 174 18 42 194 91 117 130 61 53 42 110 202
2%3%2%9%2%0%1%5%4%2%3%3%3%5%1%1%
7%7%9%7%12%14%3%6%18%8%7%6%7%8%5%8%6%8%8%10%9%5%
10%10%13%9%21%13%6%8%25%16%6%11%19%10%7%6%13%8%15%12%12%9%
39%38%43%38%44%50%32%39%40%37%41%39%26%41%41%42%37%46%30%31%50%35%
42%45%33%44%15%22%58%46%13%36%47%44%45%38%47%44%40%34%47%43%28%49%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.1 4.2 3.9 4.2 3.4 3.8 4.4 4.2 3.4 3.9 4.3 4.2 4.0 4.0 4.3 4.2 4.1 4.0 4.2 4.0 4.0 4.2
364 69 79 208 34 115 206 314 40 165 174 18 42 193 91 117 129 61 53 42 110 201
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 2
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
How satisfied are you with the following
size/design/cost aspects of your home?
And which items were important in your
decision to purchase your home?OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Storage space
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
Energy efficiency
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
Overall cost of home
(mortgage, HOA, etc.)
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
11%13%6%13%29%19%5%10%28%14%10%33%7%12%11%5%16%13%13%26%12%8%
22%19%14%27%15%29%19%23%18%23%20%40%25%15%21%22%21%26%14%21%24%
9%9%9%9%15%9%8%9%13%11%8%11%10%9%8%6%12%10%9%7%10%9%
29%31%35%26%24%31%30%29%28%28%29%33%24%28%30%31%25%32%28%29%36%25%
28%29%36%25%18%12%38%30%15%24%33%22%19%26%36%37%25%24%23%24%22%34%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
3.4 3.4 3.8 3.3 2.9 2.9 3.8 3.5 2.9 3.3 3.6 3.1 3.1 3.3 3.7 3.7 3.2 3.3 3.2 3.1 3.4 3.5
366 70 80 208 34 117 206 315 40 167 174 18 42 194 92 117 130 62 53 42 111 202
4%9%4%16%5%2%3%13%7%2%12%2%5%2%3%2%7%10%7%3%4%
11%10%13%10%22%17%5%9%25%12%9%18%19%10%7%4%13%13%17%20%12%9%
17%17%15%18%28%23%13%18%15%18%17%29%24%16%12%16%16%25%17%27%16%16%
32%38%37%27%22%31%33%32%28%35%28%24%26%34%33%33%35%26%27%22%32%32%
36%26%35%40%13%24%47%38%20%28%44%18%29%35%46%44%34%30%29%24%37%38%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
3.8 3.6 3.9 3.9 2.9 3.5 4.2 3.9 3.2 3.7 4.0 3.2 3.6 3.9 4.1 4.1 3.9 3.6 3.5 3.4 3.9 3.9
364 69 79 207 32 117 206 313 40 165 174 17 42 194 91 118 129 61 52 41 111 201
4%6%5%21%3%2%3%10%7%1%29%10%2%3%1%4%8%8%10%4%3%
9%1%8%13%21%15%4%8%23%15%5%18%24%9%3%3%5%19%23%10%15%6%
8%10%9%6%6%16%3%7%10%11%5%12%8%7%5%11%8%6%15%5%8%
25%19%25%26%21%32%20%25%28%25%24%24%21%31%16%20%30%26%23%22%28%24%
54%70%53%50%30%32%70%57%30%42%66%29%33%50%71%70%51%39%40%44%48%58%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.2 4.6 4.1 4.0 3.2 3.8 4.5 4.2 3.5 3.8 4.5 3.1 3.5 4.2 4.5 4.6 4.2 3.7 3.7 3.8 4.0 4.3
364 69 80 206 33 117 206 313 40 166 174 17 42 193 92 118 128 62 52 41 110 202
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 3
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
How satisfied are you with the following
size/design/cost aspects of your home?
And which items were important in your
decision to purchase your home?OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Sound levels (from other
units, roads, etc.)
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
Location of home, all things
considered
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
Proximity to bus stops
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
9%7%6%12%33%13%4%7%31%13%5%11%10%11%5%4%8%18%15%10%15%6%
12%7%9%15%15%16%10%11%21%15%9%28%12%10%15%12%15%3%19%7%15%11%
15%14%13%15%24%16%13%15%23%16%15%22%21%13%15%14%16%25%9%15%12%18%
24%22%23%27%9%31%23%25%21%23%25%6%38%28%14%23%22%23%34%27%27%22%
39%49%50%31%18%24%50%43%5%33%46%33%19%37%49%47%40%31%23%41%31%42%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
3.7 4.0 4.0 3.5 2.6 3.4 4.1 3.9 2.5 3.5 4.0 3.2 3.5 3.7 3.9 4.0 3.7 3.5 3.3 3.8 3.4 3.8
365 69 80 207 33 117 206 315 39 167 173 18 42 195 91 118 129 61 53 41 111 202
1%1%1%3%2%0%1%5%2%2%2%2%2%2%0%
4%2%5%12%6%0%2%15%5%2%6%5%4%2%3%2%6%6%2%5%2%
2%1%2%1%3%3%0%1%5%1%2%5%1%2%1%2%3%2%2%1%
20%23%23%17%12%27%18%19%28%24%18%39%24%20%14%19%21%16%21%14%26%18%
74%76%70%75%71%62%81%78%48%68%79%56%67%73%82%77%73%73%72%81%65%78%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.6 4.7 4.6 4.6 4.4 4.4 4.8 4.7 4.0 4.5 4.7 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.8 4.7 4.6 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.5 4.7
368 70 81 208 34 117 208 318 40 168 176 18 42 196 93 118 131 63 53 42 111 205
2%3%2%3%3%1%2%3%4%1%6%10%1%2%3%6%1%3%
4%1%9%3%3%3%4%4%3%5%4%11%10%3%4%3%2%10%6%2%3%6%
14%7%23%14%15%16%13%14%20%15%13%6%7%17%15%14%18%8%13%19%15%14%
18%20%13%20%35%26%11%17%33%24%15%22%33%16%17%10%25%16%25%26%20%17%
61%71%54%60%44%51%70%63%43%52%68%56%40%63%63%72%54%62%51%52%61%62%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.3 4.6 4.1 4.3 4.1 4.2 4.4 4.3 4.1 4.2 4.5 4.1 3.9 4.4 4.4 4.5 4.3 4.2 4.1 4.3 4.4 4.3
363 69 80 205 34 117 203 312 40 168 171 18 42 194 92 115 130 61 53 42 110 200
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 4
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
How satisfied are you with the following
size/design/cost aspects of your home?
And which items were important in your
decision to purchase your home?OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Bike path/trail access
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
Proximity to open space
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
Sense of safety
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
1%1%1%3%0%1%3%2%1%2%1%2%2%2%1%
1%1%0%1%1%1%2%1%1%2%1%
8%6%8%9%12%9%6%7%18%8%9%28%17%6%5%3%8%10%15%10%6%9%
15%14%16%15%18%20%12%13%25%17%13%17%29%13%14%14%16%13%15%19%16%14%
75%80%75%74%71%69%80%78%55%72%76%56%51%78%80%81%73%75%67%71%76%76%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.6 4.7 4.6 4.6 4.6 4.5 4.7 4.7 4.3 4.6 4.6 4.3 4.3 4.6 4.8 4.8 4.6 4.6 4.5 4.6 4.6 4.6
363 70 80 204 34 115 205 313 40 166 173 18 41 194 92 118 130 60 52 42 111 200
1%1%3%3%1%1%3%1%1%1%1%1%1%2%2%1%
3%1%5%12%4%1%3%10%5%2%6%2%5%1%1%5%3%2%5%5%2%
11%6%9%14%15%13%8%11%10%10%12%39%12%9%10%5%13%10%19%19%13%9%
20%20%28%18%18%29%16%19%33%27%16%6%32%22%16%21%22%25%13%24%22%19%
65%72%60%64%53%54%74%67%45%57%71%50%54%63%72%73%59%62%64%52%58%71%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.4 4.6 4.4 4.4 4.1 4.3 4.6 4.5 4.1 4.3 4.5 4.0 4.4 4.4 4.6 4.6 4.3 4.5 4.4 4.2 4.3 4.6
362 69 80 204 34 114 205 312 40 166 173 18 41 193 92 117 129 60 53 42 110 200
2%1%1%2%6%3%0%1%5%2%6%2%2%1%3%2%5%2%1%
5%4%3%6%12%9%2%4%10%7%2%11%12%5%2%3%5%5%8%10%5%3%
9%6%8%10%21%12%5%7%20%11%7%28%10%7%8%10%4%10%13%14%8%7%
28%24%26%30%24%37%23%28%25%31%27%11%32%31%23%30%30%25%25%21%33%26%
57%64%63%52%38%40%70%60%40%49%64%44%44%55%67%56%58%61%52%50%51%62%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.3 4.5 4.5 4.2 3.8 4.0 4.6 4.4 3.9 4.2 4.5 3.8 4.0 4.3 4.6 4.4 4.3 4.4 4.2 4.0 4.3 4.4
364 70 80 205 34 115 206 314 40 167 173 18 41 194 92 118 130 61 52 42 111 201
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 5
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
How satisfied are you with the following
size/design/cost aspects of your home?
And which items were important in your
decision to purchase your home?OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Proximity to shopping &
restaurants
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
Proximity to schools
1 - Very Dissatisfied
2 - Somewhat Dissatisfied
3 - Neutral
4 - Somewhat Satisfied
5 - Very Satisfied
TOTAL
Average
n =
2%3%4%1%3%2%2%3%4%1%6%7%1%2%4%2%4%3%3%
7%3%6%7%8%7%6%8%8%6%17%10%6%6%6%5%10%6%10%6%7%
16%6%21%18%15%25%11%14%28%19%13%17%34%12%18%15%15%18%17%17%16%15%
28%30%29%27%24%29%27%28%23%25%33%11%17%28%32%33%25%25%25%36%29%25%
48%59%40%47%61%34%53%49%40%45%48%50%32%53%42%47%50%45%49%38%46%51%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.1 4.4 3.9 4.1 4.5 3.8 4.2 4.2 3.9 4.0 4.2 3.8 3.6 4.3 4.1 4.2 4.1 4.0 4.1 4.0 4.1 4.2
363 70 78 206 33 116 205 312 40 166 172 18 41 195 90 116 130 60 53 42 111 199
1%3%3%1%3%1%1%5%3%3%2%1%1%2%2%2%2%1%2%
1%3%1%3%1%1%1%5%1%1%2%2%2%1%
49%19%40%62%59%47%48%47%59%52%46%61%65%47%44%45%51%49%52%61%44%48%
13%20%17%10%6%15%14%13%11%13%15%11%10%13%18%17%12%11%12%20%16%11%
36%58%38%27%35%32%38%38%24%31%39%28%18%38%37%37%36%37%32%17%38%39%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
3.8 4.3 3.8 3.6 3.8 3.7 3.9 3.9 3.5 3.7 3.9 3.7 3.4 3.9 3.9 3.9 3.8 3.8 3.7 3.5 3.9 3.9
344 69 77 189 34 112 189 298 37 159 165 18 40 186 84 109 126 57 50 41 103 192
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 6
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
How satisfied are you with the following
size/design/cost aspects of your home?
And which items were important in your
decision to purchase your home?OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Check if item was important
in decision to purchase:
Overall cost of home (mortgage, HOA, etc.)
Location of home, all things considered
Size of home
Layout / design of home
Sense of safety
Bike path/trail access
Type of home (condo, townhouse, etc.)
Proximity to open space
Sound levels (fromother units, roads, etc.)
Storage space
Proximity to bus stops
Energy efficiency
Proximity to shopping & restaurants
Proximity to schools
TOTAL
n =
80%76%70%84%80%81%80%80%79%83%78%67%82%84%75%79%80%75%87%76%82%79%
76%67%72%80%76%77%75%79%48%79%73%80%79%74%77%77%76%71%77%82%78%73%
62%65%59%63%60%57%65%64%45%64%58%67%59%60%65%60%62%54%72%63%61%62%
45%44%39%45%40%33%52%47%24%43%45%20%50%42%51%45%39%54%44%53%39%46%
42%43%47%39%56%32%43%43%24%46%35%53%41%41%38%41%41%35%54%39%38%44%
39%46%36%37%60%41%36%40%28%42%35%33%26%44%34%42%42%33%28%42%41%36%
37%69%27%30%20%32%42%38%28%33%42%20%41%39%30%35%39%35%41%39%32%39%
33%35%30%33%36%33%33%33%31%35%30%13%35%31%39%40%26%38%28%24%38%32%
26%24%27%27%44%23%24%26%24%30%21%20%29%26%27%24%29%21%31%29%30%24%
24%24%25%25%40%17%25%24%21%29%19%20%24%24%23%25%23%15%33%39%29%18%
24%22%22%26%40%24%22%23%24%28%18%33%29%23%22%27%21%25%18%26%19%24%
23%20%23%24%28%19%26%25%10%30%17%20%26%24%23%24%23%17%31%21%25%23%
23%22%23%23%60%20%20%23%24%28%17%47%18%23%21%21%26%25%21%21%26%21%
18%37%19%13%32%21%15%20%7%20%15%33%21%19%10%15%21%19%18%8%18%21%
552%594%519%550%672%510%557%566%417%591%504%527%562%554%535%556%549%517%582%563%556%542%
298 54 64 172 25 96 168 261 29 138 139 15 34 160 77 106 103 48 39 38 93 160
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 7
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Which two items were most important in
your decision to purchase your home?OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
First Rank
Overall cost of home (mortgage, HOA, etc.)
Location of home, all things considered
Size of home
Type of home (condo, townhouse, etc.)
Layout / design of home
Proximity to open space
Energy efficiency
Sound levels (from other units, roads, etc.)
Bike path/trail access
Proximity to shopping & restaurants
Other (1)
Sense of safety
Proximity to bus stops
Storage space
Proximity to schools
TOTAL
n =
Second Rank
Location of home, all things considered
Overall cost of home (mortgage, HOA, etc.)
Size of home
Layout / design of home
No second choice
Sense of safety
Type of home (condo, townhouse, etc.)
Other (1)
Sound levels (from other units, roads, etc.)
Proximity to schools
Bike path/trail access
Proximity to open space
Storage space
Energy efficiency
Proximity to shopping & restaurants
Proximity to bus stops
Other (2)
TOTAL
n =
53%42%56%55%47%54%53%52%57%52%55%71%61%52%52%54%55%51%46%50%49%56%
20%8%23%22%28%21%18%20%17%23%16%14%15%21%24%20%15%26%25%23%28%15%
11%18%12%9%9%9%13%12%11%10%12%7%12%10%15%12%13%9%10%13%11%12%
5%20%4%1%3%7%5%5%6%6%5%2%8%1%3%7%4%8%5%4%6%
4%2%3%5%2%6%4%3%2%5%5%3%3%5%2%9%5%2%4%
1%2%2%1%1%3%1%1%5%1%1%1%4%3%1%1%
1%3%1%2%1%2%1%2%2%2%2%
1%2%2%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%2%1%1%
1%2%1%3%1%1%1%1%1%1%2%1%
1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%
1%1%1%3%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%1%2%
1%3%3%1%1%1%1%1%1%2%1%
1%2%1%1%1%0%3%1%1%2%1%1%
0%1%1%0%1%1%1%1%
0%2%3%0%1%7%2%3%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
343 65 78 192 32 109 194 300 35 157 164 14 41 184 88 111 125 57 48 40 103 192
26%23%24%30%22%27%27%26%22%23%30%27%29%26%27%28%26%29%20%24%26%27%
23%27%22%21%22%19%25%23%22%22%22%21%23%25%25%20%22%26%24%21%23%
15%14%17%16%19%11%16%16%16%15%15%20%5%18%13%11%20%19%10%20%17%14%
11%6%13%11%19%12%10%11%8%12%11%27%19%8%10%13%6%12%16%10%11%11%
5%5%8%4%3%8%4%5%5%6%4%7%7%4%4%3%7%2%8%2%5%6%
3%5%5%3%4%4%3%5%4%2%7%2%3%6%3%4%3%4%2%4%4%
3%11%2%3%4%3%3%4%7%4%1%3%4%2%2%2%3%3%
2%2%3%2%2%3%2%5%4%1%2%3%2%2%2%2%6%2%4%1%
2%2%3%2%3%2%1%5%2%1%5%2%1%2%2%2%2%2%
2%3%1%2%2%2%2%3%1%7%2%2%1%4%2%2%2%2%
1%3%2%2%1%3%1%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%1%
1%3%3%2%1%1%5%2%1%2%1%2%2%2%2%2%1%
1%3%3%1%6%2%1%2%1%1%2%2%1%3%2%2%1%2%
1%2%1%1%3%2%1%2%1%2%1%3%2%3%2%2%2%
1%1%2%2%1%1%1%1%2%2%1%2%1%2%
1%2%3%1%1%1%3%1%1%5%1%2%2%2%
0%1%1%0%1%1%1%1%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
351 66 78 199 32 113 198 306 37 160 168 15 42 188 89 114 126 59 50 41 107 195
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 8
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Which two items were most important in
your decision to purchase your home?OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Top 2 Combined
Overall cost of home (mortgage, HOA, etc.)
Location of home, all things considered
Size of home
Layout / design of home
Type of home (condo, townhouse, etc.)
Sense of safety
Other (1)
Proximity to open space
Sound levels (from other units, roads, etc.)
Energy efficiency
Bike path/trail access
Proximity to schools
Proximity to shopping & restaurants
Storage space
Proximity to bus stops
Other (2)
TOTAL
n =
74%68%78%74%69%71%77%74%76%73%76%67%81%74%76%77%75%71%70%73%67%78%
46%30%47%51%50%48%44%46%38%45%46%40%43%46%51%47%41%54%44%46%53%41%
26%32%28%24%28%19%29%27%27%24%27%27%17%28%28%23%33%27%20%32%27%26%
15%8%15%16%19%13%15%15%11%14%16%27%24%11%13%18%8%20%16%15%13%15%
8%30%4%3%3%10%8%8%5%8%8%7%2%12%2%5%11%5%10%7%7%9%
4%8%5%3%3%5%4%4%5%5%2%7%2%3%7%3%5%5%4%2%4%5%
3%2%4%3%3%3%3%3%5%5%1%2%3%3%3%2%2%6%2%6%1%
3%5%3%4%2%2%8%3%2%5%3%1%3%2%6%5%3%2%
3%2%3%3%4%2%2%5%3%2%5%3%2%3%4%2%3%3%
3%5%1%2%3%2%3%3%3%2%2%3%4%2%3%2%2%4%
2%2%3%3%2%2%2%3%1%3%3%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%2%
2%5%1%2%3%2%2%2%3%1%13%2%2%1%4%4%5%2%2%
2%1%3%2%2%2%1%2%3%1%3%2%2%2%2%
2%3%4%1%6%2%1%2%2%1%2%2%1%4%2%2%2%2%
1%2%2%3%2%1%1%5%1%2%5%1%1%2%4%1%2%
0%1%1%0%1%1%1%1%
193%194%192%193%197%188%194%193%189%193%193%187%190%194%194%195%192%195%188%195%192%193%
351 66 78 199 32 113 198 306 37 160 168 15 42 188 89 114 126 59 50 41 107 195
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 9
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
When you were looking for
your current home, how
important was it to you for
the home to be located in the
City of Boulder?
1 - Not at all important
2 - Slightly important
3 - Moderately important
4 - Very important
5 - Extremely important
TOTAL
Average
n =
When you were looking for
your current home, how
important was it to you to be
able to buy your home
(rather than rent)?
1 - Not at all important
3 - Moderately important
4 - Very important
5 - Extremely important
TOTAL
Average
n =
1%2%3%0%1%5%1%1%5%2%1%1%6%2%1%
2%1%2%3%3%2%2%2%10%3%2%5%4%3%2%2%4%10%2%1%
6%6%7%6%3%5%8%6%8%7%6%7%7%6%5%5%10%9%5%5%7%
21%21%26%19%24%27%18%21%20%21%22%11%26%24%15%14%27%19%26%21%22%20%
69%71%64%70%71%64%71%70%57%69%69%84%60%65%78%78%67%70%55%64%69%71%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.5 4.6 4.5 4.5 4.6 4.5 4.6 4.6 4.2 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.4 4.5 4.7 4.7 4.6 4.6 4.2 4.4 4.5 4.6
366 70 81 206 34 118 205 318 40 167 177 19 42 195 93 117 132 63 53 42 112 204
0%1%1%3%1%2%1%2%
2%1%3%4%0%2%2%2%2%3%1%1%2%5%4%1%
16%10%16%19%15%21%14%15%30%17%14%16%19%17%12%15%14%21%21%19%16%16%
81%90%81%78%85%74%86%83%68%80%84%84%76%80%87%84%83%75%79%79%79%83%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
4.8 4.9 4.8 4.8 4.9 4.7 4.9 4.8 4.6 4.8 4.8 4.8 4.7 4.8 4.9 4.8 4.8 4.7 4.8 4.7 4.8 4.8
367 70 81 207 34 118 206 319 40 168 177 19 42 196 93 118 132 63 53 42 112 205
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 10
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Have your housing costs been more, less,
or about the same as you expected for
the following items?OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Mortgage payment (principal,
interest, taxes, insurance)
1 - Much More
2 - Somewhat More
3 - About the Same
4 - Somewhat Less
5 - Much Less
Not Applicable
TOTAL
Average
n =
HOA fees and assessments
1 - Much More
2 - Somewhat More
3 - About the Same
4 - Somewhat Less
5 - Much Less
Not Applicable
TOTAL
Average
n =
Utilities
1 - Much More
2 - Somewhat More
3 - About the Same
4 - Somewhat Less
5 - Much Less
TOTAL
Average
n =
Maintenance and repairs
1 - Much More
2 - Somewhat More
3 - About the Same
4 - Somewhat Less
5 - Much Less
Not Applicable
TOTAL
Average
n =
1%3%1%6%1%0%1%3%2%1%6%2%1%1%2%2%2%2%1%
6%12%4%4%3%10%3%6%3%6%5%11%12%5%3%2%5%8%13%2%4%7%
75%77%79%72%81%74%74%74%79%74%77%56%63%78%76%74%78%73%69%74%74%75%
11%7%10%12%3%11%12%11%5%11%10%17%12%11%10%15%9%8%10%12%12%10%
6%4%4%7%3%3%9%6%8%6%5%11%2%5%8%9%5%5%4%7%7%6%
2%3%3%2%2%2%3%2%2%7%1%2%1%2%5%2%2%2%2%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
3.2 3.0 3.1 3.2 2.9 3.1 3.3 3.2 3.1 3.1 3.1 3.2 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.1 3.1 3.0 3.2 3.2 3.1
352 69 78 197 31 112 201 306 38 160 171 18 38 190 91 116 127 57 51 41 109 194
32%7%40%37%65%39%21%30%43%46%17%42%56%31%25%21%32%40%45%31%37%29%
33%20%35%36%24%32%36%33%33%30%37%26%32%32%39%34%35%37%25%36%34%32%
25%42%17%23%9%19%32%27%13%14%36%16%7%28%28%32%24%21%19%29%21%27%
4%6%7%2%3%4%4%4%3%4%3%5%3%5%7%3%2%2%4%5%
1%3%1%2%1%3%1%2%2%1%2%2%2%2%1%1%
5%22%1%0%6%5%4%8%5%5%16%6%2%5%5%2%8%2%4%6%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
2.1 2.7 1.9 1.9 1.5 1.9 2.3 2.1 1.8 1.8 2.3 1.7 1.6 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.0 1.8 1.8 2.0 1.9 2.1
348 54 80 205 34 111 194 303 37 160 166 16 41 185 91 111 125 62 49 41 108 191
5%11%4%3%15%5%3%5%5%8%1%5%7%5%2%2%5%5%11%7%4%
20%26%25%17%21%24%17%20%20%20%19%21%38%22%11%15%24%21%23%24%17%21%
62%61%63%60%62%61%63%61%65%57%67%58%43%60%72%63%60%63%60%62%61%62%
10%1%9%14%9%12%11%8%12%10%16%10%9%12%14%10%8%6%10%13%8%
3%6%3%1%5%3%3%2%4%2%4%3%7%2%3%5%2%4%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
2.9 2.5 2.8 3.0 2.6 2.8 3.0 2.9 2.8 2.8 3.0 2.8 2.6 2.8 3.0 3.1 2.8 2.8 2.6 3.0 2.9 2.9
366 70 80 207 34 117 206 318 40 167 177 19 42 195 93 118 131 63 53 42 112 204
10%23%9%7%21%16%5%8%23%14%4%26%19%10%5%5%11%11%17%15%8%10%
19%25%19%17%24%22%16%18%23%27%11%26%26%19%13%19%16%16%30%15%18%19%
53%39%55%56%41%53%55%54%45%43%63%37%40%55%58%50%57%58%42%50%56%52%
8%6%10%8%6%4%11%9%5%7%10%5%7%6%14%12%8%3%6%13%7%8%
7%6%4%10%3%3%11%8%3%5%10%5%5%7%10%14%4%5%6%8%7%8%
2%1%4%2%6%2%2%3%3%4%1%2%4%1%3%6%4%2%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
2.8 2.5 2.8 3.0 2.4 2.6 3.1 2.9 2.4 2.6 3.1 2.4 2.5 2.8 3.1 3.1 2.8 2.7 2.5 2.8 2.9 2.8
355 68 77 201 32 114 200 308 39 161 173 19 41 187 92 116 127 58 53 40 108 199
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 11
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Overall, how do you feel
about your current financial
situation?
Not at all secure
Not too secure
Somewhat secure
Very secure
TOTAL
n =
How has your sense of
financial security changed
since you purchased your
home?
Improved significantly
Improved slightly
No change
Declined slightly
Declined significantly
TOTAL
n =
5%5%6%6%15%7%3%5%11%7%4%100%2%8%20%10%6%5%
12%6%13%14%15%17%8%12%16%18%7%100%2%12%10%37%15%11%12%
56%67%49%56%48%58%56%56%53%54%57%100%52%64%60%41%51%58%55%
27%22%32%26%21%19%33%28%21%21%32%100%46%21%22%2%24%25%28%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
350 63 79 200 33 113 195 304 38 164 165 19 42 196 93 112 126 60 51 41 107 194
32%34%33%32%9%21%43%36%10%23%41%5%30%56%100%24%30%35%
36%39%32%36%32%39%34%36%35%38%33%17%36%41%29%100%33%38%35%
17%13%21%17%35%25%11%16%28%19%16%28%14%18%14%100%26%17%16%
10%10%7%12%21%9%8%9%23%17%5%6%36%10%1%70%12%12%9%
4%4%6%4%3%6%3%4%5%4%5%50%10%1%30%5%3%5%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
366 70 81 206 34 118 205 318 40 167 177 18 42 196 93 118 132 63 53 42 112 204
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 12
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Are you glad that you
purchased your
home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance
for a “do-over?”
Yes
No
TOTAL
n =
Have there been any
surprises to you as a
homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better
informed about before
purchasing?
Yes
No
TOTAL
n =
89%93%88%88%55%86%96%100%82%95%78%85%90%91%97%89%82%79%76%83%95%
11%7%13%12%45%14%4%100%18%5%22%15%10%9%3%11%18%21%24%17%5%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
359 67 80 203 33 113 204 319 40 165 176 18 41 191 92 117 128 61 52 41 110 203
49%38%57%48%91%54%38%45%78%100%61%71%49%40%35%52%52%67%50%55%45%
51%62%43%52%9%46%62%55%22%100%39%29%51%60%65%48%48%33%50%45%55%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
345 63 77 196 33 112 194 304 37 168 177 18 41 183 87 110 123 60 51 40 103 197
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 13
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
About your household OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
How many people live in your
household?
1
2
3
4
5
6
TOTAL
Average
n =
How many of these persons
are currently employed?
0
1
2
3
TOTAL
Average
n =
How many of these persons
are retired?
0
1
2
TOTAL
Average
n =
How many of these persons
are aged 17 or under?
0
1
2
3
4
TOTAL
Average
n =
42%15%28%55%56%39%41%41%48%48%37%47%57%41%35%37%41%42%58%34%46%42%
27%18%24%31%26%25%28%28%20%23%31%21%17%26%37%32%22%31%21%44%23%25%
15%24%23%9%9%17%15%15%18%15%14%16%5%16%16%17%20%8%6%12%13%16%
12%30%16%4%6%13%12%11%15%10%12%11%14%12%8%10%13%13%12%7%15%11%
4%10%8%0%3%4%4%4%2%5%5%7%4%2%4%3%5%4%2%3%5%
1%3%1%2%0%1%1%1%1%2%1%1%2%1%1%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
2.1 3.1 2.6 1.6 1.7 2.2 2.1 2.1 2.0 2.0 2.2 2.1 2.0 2.1 2.1 2.2 2.2 2.1 1.8 2.0 2.1 2.1
361 67 79 206 34 114 204 316 40 165 177 19 42 191 92 115 131 62 52 41 112 204
13%4%9%17%24%12%12%12%20%18%9%5%26%12%9%9%8%21%27%10%11%15%
47%45%41%50%50%45%47%46%50%48%47%63%50%48%41%50%47%44%42%37%55%44%
38%43%49%33%24%41%40%40%28%32%43%32%21%38%49%40%43%34%29%54%34%37%
2%7%1%0%3%2%2%2%3%2%1%2%2%1%2%2%2%2%3%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
1.3 1.5 1.4 1.2 1.1 1.3 1.3 1.3 1.1 1.2 1.4 1.3 1.0 1.3 1.4 1.3 1.4 1.2 1.1 1.4 1.2 1.3
361 67 79 206 34 114 204 316 40 165 177 19 42 191 92 115 131 62 52 41 112 204
85%85%91%83%85%88%83%86%78%82%89%95%69%88%88%91%89%77%69%90%89%81%
14%13%9%17%12%12%16%13%23%18%10%5%31%11%12%7%11%21%31%10%11%17%
1%1%0%3%1%1%1%1%1%2%2%1%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
.2 .2 .1 .2 .2 .1 .2 .1 .2 .2 .1 .1 .3 .1 .1 .1 .1 .2 .3 .1 .1 .2
361 67 79 206 34 114 204 316 40 165 177 19 42 191 92 115 131 62 52 41 112 204
65%43%46%79%74%57%69%67%55%67%63%63%62%65%68%64%62%68%75%68%63%66%
18%21%29%13%18%20%17%16%30%18%19%21%17%19%17%17%23%15%10%20%17%18%
13%27%16%7%9%18%10%12%15%13%12%16%19%11%11%13%13%11%13%12%17%11%
3%6%8%0%3%4%3%2%4%2%5%1%4%2%5%2%2%4%
1%3%1%2%0%1%1%1%1%2%1%1%2%1%1%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
.6 1.0 .9 .3 .4 .7 .5 .6 .6 .5 .6 .5 .6 .6 .5 .6 .6 .6 .4 .4 .6 .6
361 67 79 206 34 114 204 316 40 165 177 19 42 191 92 115 131 62 52 41 112 204
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 14
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Individual 1: Where do the
employed persons in your
household work?
City of Boulder
Work at home 50%+ of the time (telecommute, home workshop, etc.)
Louisville / Lafayette / Superior / Erie
Longmont / Niwot
Denver Metro area
Other (please describe)
Broomfield
TOTAL
n =
Individual 2: Where do the
employed persons in your
household work?
City of Boulder
Work at home 50%+ of the time (telecommute, home workshop, etc.)
Louisville / Lafayette / Superior / Erie
Denver Metro area
Other (please describe)
Longmont / Niwot
Broomfield
TOTAL
n =
Individual 3: Where do the
employed persons in your
household work?
City of Boulder
Broomfield
Other (please describe)
Longmont / Niwot
Louisville / Lafayette / Superior / Erie
TOTAL
n =
69%75%67%69%67%72%67%69%68%73%66%50%77%73%63%69%71%71%61%68%67%70%
18%21%20%16%19%13%21%18%13%16%19%28%10%16%21%18%19%12%21%21%18%18%
6%5%8%5%9%6%6%10%4%6%10%5%9%7%4%8%5%3%10%5%
4%3%3%6%7%5%4%5%3%4%5%6%4%7%4%4%6%5%5%3%5%
3%7%3%4%2%4%3%3%4%3%11%4%1%2%4%4%3%3%4%3%
3%3%3%2%7%3%3%3%3%2%4%6%3%4%1%3%8%8%3%2%4%
0%1%1%0%1%1%2%1%
104%106%107%102%104%105%104%105%100%104%104%100%100%105%102%103%103%110%103%103%104%105%
316 63 75 170 27 101 180 280 31 140 161 18 30 171 86 107 119 51 38 38 102 173
62%70%71%51%56%61%63%63%58%66%57%100%60%59%61%57%65%62%63%50%58%67%
12%3%16%15%11%15%11%13%8%11%13%10%13%11%14%4%24%19%5%19%11%
11%9%13%10%13%10%11%8%9%9%20%8%13%6%15%14%6%23%8%9%
10%6%11%12%7%13%9%17%2%16%12%11%14%5%14%6%14%14%7%
8%9%5%9%33%4%7%8%13%5%12%4%12%5%5%6%9%3%9%
4%3%3%6%4%5%5%5%4%20%1%7%6%4%5%5%6%4%
4%3%8%3%2%6%4%8%4%5%20%3%4%4%7%5%3%5%
111%103%126%106%100%107%114%112%100%109%111%100%130%108%111%114%105%124%100%109%111%111%
141 33 38 68 9 46 84 128 12 56 75 5 10 75 46 49 55 21 16 22 36 81
33%33%50%100%25%29%100%40%33%100%20%67%50%38%
22%17%50%67%29%20%33%40%33%50%100%13%
22%17%100%33%25%14%40%40%50%50%25%
11%17%25%14%33%50%13%
11%17%25%14%100%50%13%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
9 6 1 2 2 3 4 7 1 5 3 1 5 1 2 3 2 2 1 8
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 15
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Where do the employed
persons in your household
work? (All workers in
household)
City of Boulder
Work at home 50%+ of the time (telecommute, home workshop, etc.)
Louisville / Lafayette / Superior / Erie
Denver Metro area
Other (please describe)
Longmont / Niwot
Broomfield
TOTAL
n =
97%111%103%90%89%100%96%98%94%100%93%78%100%98%95%94%103%96%87%97%87%102%
23%22%28%22%21%20%26%24%16%21%25%28%13%22%27%24%21%22%28%24%25%23%
11%11%15%9%15%10%11%13%8%10%17%8%17%11%11%14%8%16%13%9%
8%3%12%8%4%5%10%7%10%4%10%11%9%7%8%7%10%5%11%9%6%
7%9%7%6%18%6%7%7%3%9%7%6%3%10%3%8%3%12%13%8%3%9%
7%6%4%8%7%7%7%7%3%6%7%6%7%5%10%7%6%8%5%8%5%7%
3%3%4%2%4%3%3%3%2%4%7%3%2%2%4%4%3%3%3%
155%165%172%146%139%156%159%157%142%150%156%128%147%155%163%156%155%165%146%166%144%159%
318 65 75 170 28 101 181 282 31 141 162 18 30 172 86 108 119 51 39 38 102 175
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
How long have you lived in
your current residence?
Less than 6 months
6 months up to 1 year
1 up to 5 years
5 up to 10 years
10 up to 20 years
More than 20 years
TOTAL
n =
How long have you lived in
Boulder Valley?
1 up to 5 years
5 up to 10 years
10 up to 20 years
More than 20 years
TOTAL
n =
And, how much longer do
you plan on living in the
Boulder Valley?
Less than 6 months
6 months up to 1 year
1 up to 5 years
5 up to 10 years
10 up to 20 years
More than 20 years
TOTAL
n =
3%4%1%3%3%3%2%3%3%4%3%5%2%1%7%2%2%3%3%
5%4%5%5%4%6%5%5%5%7%6%3%5%4%8%2%5%2%6%
30%29%25%33%21%38%27%31%23%28%33%11%31%34%26%32%32%31%21%43%38%23%
32%28%42%29%38%23%37%31%38%31%33%26%24%28%45%35%33%28%26%29%34%31%
28%26%23%29%35%30%26%27%35%31%25%53%33%27%21%24%23%31%43%21%21%33%
2%7%4%3%2%2%2%3%2%2%11%5%1%2%3%1%2%6%2%3%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
361 68 79 205 34 115 203 316 40 167 175 19 42 192 91 116 130 61 53 42 112 204
7%3%3%9%11%6%7%6%6%6%7%8%8%4%7%5%7%8%10%8%5%
21%24%26%19%7%23%23%23%6%19%24%6%18%20%29%22%24%25%6%28%22%19%
33%34%32%33%39%32%31%32%41%33%30%22%26%32%40%33%35%33%27%36%32%32%
40%39%39%39%43%39%39%39%47%41%39%72%49%40%27%38%36%35%59%26%38%43%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
335 62 72 193 28 108 191 296 34 154 164 18 39 179 84 109 121 55 49 39 102 191
1%2%1%4%1%0%1%7%1%2%3%1%
1%1%1%1%1%1%1%3%1%1%2%6%
8%7%7%10%16%9%7%8%11%9%8%7%8%7%13%8%4%18%7%28%16%1%
11%7%16%12%16%13%11%11%14%14%9%14%15%13%8%11%11%11%14%8%16%10%
21%25%21%18%12%23%22%21%21%23%19%7%28%20%22%14%28%22%20%17%15%25%
58%59%56%58%52%54%59%59%54%52%62%64%48%60%56%65%56%49%55%39%54%63%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
322 59 70 184 25 101 189 289 28 149 159 14 40 167 85 107 115 55 44 36 95 189
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 16
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Do you anticipate moving out
of your home within the next
five years?
Yes
Maybe
No
TOTAL
n =
(If yes or maybe) What are
the main reasons you plan to
move or might
move? (Check all that apply)
Live in larger home
Change in family/personal situation (e.g. having children, getting married, getting divorced, retirement, etc.)
I live in attached housing (condo, townhouse) and want a detached home
I want to buy a market rate unit
Live in a nicer home - Please identify what would be nicer:
Other:
I want to live in a different city / area where?
I want to move to a different neighborhood or home in Boulder
Live in less expensive home
I want to rent
I live in a detached home and want an attached home
TOTAL
n =
12%9%4%16%27%11%9%10%25%12%11%21%14%11%11%9%11%18%13%100%
31%21%38%33%30%47%22%29%48%35%26%32%29%33%29%30%34%31%30%100%
57%71%58%51%42%41%68%61%28%53%62%47%57%56%60%62%55%52%57%100%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
359 68 79 203 33 114 203 314 40 165 175 19 42 189 92 115 128 62 53 42 112 205
45%43%44%45%29%53%43%50%20%43%51%27%45%48%40%40%56%41%31%52%43%31%
35%24%36%37%29%30%39%39%17%37%33%9%30%38%33%50%37%16%23%38%37%6%
35%39%40%57%41%24%30%50%37%33%9%35%36%36%30%47%31%19%38%36%13%
24%10%39%23%38%29%17%20%40%24%23%18%35%23%24%22%27%19%27%33%23%13%
22%19%22%23%38%31%8%18%40%24%19%9%40%21%17%20%24%16%27%21%23%13%
20%24%11%23%14%20%22%20%17%17%23%27%15%19%24%18%13%34%23%21%16%44%
17%29%22%14%14%17%18%16%20%17%12%27%20%18%14%6%21%19%27%24%14%19%
12%19%11%11%19%10%11%10%17%13%10%30%10%12%10%13%3%23%14%11%13%
8%11%9%5%9%9%8%7%13%4%18%20%7%2%6%5%6%23%10%7%13%
2%4%3%3%2%3%3%1%10%1%2%2%3%4%5%2%
1%3%1%5%1%1%1%1%5%1%2%4%2%1%
221%167%239%227%248%244%195%216%230%231%211%145%285%222%202%204%247%188%231%260%214%163%
170 21 36 111 21 70 76 137 30 86 73 11 20 91 42 50 62 32 26 42 111 16
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 17
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Cost of living OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
What is your average
monthly mortgage payment
(including property taxes and
insurance, if applicable)?
Do not pay mortgage / mortgage paid off
$1 - $200
$200 - $399
$400 - $599
$600 - $799
$800 - $999
$1,000 - $1,199
$1,200 - $1,399
$1,400 - $1,599
$1,600 - $1,799
$1,800 - $1,999
$2,200 - $2,399
TOTAL
Average
Median
n =
7%5%4%9%11%3%8%8%3%6%8%17%5%9%6%7%10%6%5%4%9%
0%1%1%0%1%1%2%1%
1%1%2%3%1%2%3%1%5%1%1%2%3%2%2%2%
11%3%4%15%11%11%11%10%19%9%13%6%12%11%8%13%10%9%12%8%11%12%
21%11%6%28%21%23%19%21%19%21%20%33%22%21%17%24%21%16%22%34%20%19%
24%15%27%26%25%23%24%23%28%29%19%22%20%25%26%23%25%26%20%18%24%24%
14%18%20%11%21%16%13%14%19%12%16%11%7%14%18%15%12%14%18%16%15%13%
11%19%20%5%4%10%12%11%6%10%11%11%2%12%10%12%10%14%6%11%9%12%
6%13%9%3%7%8%5%6%6%7%5%17%10%6%2%4%7%2%12%8%10%4%
2%8%4%2%3%3%1%3%5%2%2%1%3%3%2%1%4%
2%6%4%4%2%1%3%3%2%2%3%2%2%3%
0%2%1%0%1%1%1%1%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
$875 $1,145 $1,056 $735 $806 $885 $889 $879 $833 $859 $888 $944 $734 $910 $862 $873 $903 $817 $865 $858 $919 $853
$850 $1,174 $1,051 $746 $839 $857 $860 $857 $809 $850 $862 $848 $715 $866 $870 $853 $850 $855 $835 $825 $900 $845
339 62 70 198 28 108 194 302 32 154 167 18 41 177 87 109 121 58 50 38 107 191
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 18
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Cost of living OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Is your home part of a
Homeowners Association
(HOA)?
Yes
No
TOTAL
n =
(If belong to HOA) What are
your current monthly HOA
dues?
Less than $100
$100 - $199
$200 - $299
$300 - $399
$400 - $499
$500 - $599
$600 - $699
TOTAL
Average
Median
n =
(If belong to HOA) In the time
you have owned your home,
have there been any lump
sum special assessments?
Yes
No
TOTAL
n =
95%75%97%100%100%94%94%95%93%95%94%84%100%94%98%94%95%95%94%98%96%94%
5%25%3%6%6%5%8%5%6%16%6%2%6%5%5%6%2%4%6%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
359 67 78 205 34 114 202 314 40 166 174 19 42 189 92 113 130 62 53 42 112 202
10%58%5%0%3%10%12%11%6%7%12%6%13%10%11%10%10%8%5%5%14%
16%24%22%12%9%10%22%16%17%15%17%13%10%15%20%23%11%17%14%10%17%18%
49%18%44%58%48%51%46%49%46%45%53%38%61%49%45%44%51%50%52%57%50%46%
21%29%23%36%23%17%19%31%26%17%38%29%18%19%17%23%19%24%15%24%20%
2%3%3%2%2%4%3%1%2%2%2%2%8%1%1%
1%2%3%2%1%1%2%1%2%3%1%3%3%
1%2%2%1%1%1%1%6%1%1%2%2%3%1%1%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
$241 $103 $254 $271 $269 $261 $223 $240 $249 $263 $220 $289 $265 $235 $237 $229 $249 $241 $246 $269 $256 $224
$241 $80 $277 $246 $265 $250 $234 $241 $237 $260 $232 $277 $265 $231 $241 $239 $242 $239 $255 $247 $245 $238
335 50 73 203 33 105 188 295 35 155 163 16 41 176 88 105 121 58 50 40 105 187
52%51%49%53%70%51%48%50%69%48%52%71%43%49%57%49%53%56%52%48%58%49%
48%49%51%47%30%49%52%50%31%52%48%29%57%51%43%51%47%44%48%53%42%51%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
330 51 71 199 30 104 188 290 35 150 161 14 40 172 89 106 118 57 48 40 103 184
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 19
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Cost of living OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
What is your average
monthly cost for utilities
(electricity, gas, water,
sewer, and trash)? (Exclude
internet / phone / cable TV)
$0 - none, or all included in HOA dues
$1 - $49
$50 - $99
$100 - $199
$200 - $299
$300 - $399
$400 - $499
$500 - $599
Over $1,000
TOTAL
Average
Median
n =
2%1%2%2%2%2%2%1%2%3%2%2%2%2%3%2%
8%13%6%4%9%7%8%8%7%13%10%2%12%4%5%10%7%7%8%
38%6%20%55%41%38%38%38%35%41%37%42%38%34%46%42%40%37%25%46%40%34%
34%40%52%24%38%39%30%34%32%34%32%42%35%33%31%27%31%40%46%32%34%35%
14%41%19%5%13%13%16%14%16%12%17%11%10%17%15%14%17%10%15%12%12%16%
4%11%7%1%3%4%4%3%8%2%4%5%5%4%1%2%5%6%2%2%5%4%
0%1%1%0%1%1%1%1%
0%2%1%0%1%1%1%1%
0%1%1%0%1%1%1%1%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
$121 $198 $156 $84 $113 $116 $125 $120 $125 $109 $130 $125 $111 $126 $111 $110 $130 $120 $122 $104 $109 $131
$100 $200 $120 $70 $100 $100 $100 $100 $100 $93 $100 $100 $98 $100 $90 $78 $100 $110 $110 $90 $99 $100
346 63 75 199 32 112 193 304 37 162 166 19 40 183 89 106 125 62 52 41 110 192
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 20
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Cost of living OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Sum of selected monthly
housing costs: mortgage,
HOA, and utilities (but
excluding HOA special
assessments)
$0 - $199
$200 - $399
$400 - $599
$600 - $799
$800 - $999
$1,000 - $1,199
$1,200 - $1,399
$1,400 - $1,599
$1,600 - $1,799
$1,800 - $1,999
$2,000 - $2,199
$2,200 - $2,399
$2,400 - $2,599
TOTAL
Average
Median
n =
0%1%1%0%1%1%1%1%
5%3%3%5%7%3%5%5%4%6%18%2%5%4%3%7%6%3%2%7%
2%1%4%4%1%3%2%3%3%2%2%6%2%3%5%3%3%2%
5%2%1%7%4%5%6%5%10%5%5%5%5%6%5%3%9%8%4%7%
14%5%6%18%11%17%13%14%17%14%14%11%20%14%12%15%17%12%10%21%15%12%
22%19%9%28%19%22%22%22%17%22%23%28%23%23%18%23%22%19%20%24%20%22%
19%16%27%17%26%16%19%18%27%20%16%28%8%19%21%21%14%21%22%13%24%17%
12%14%17%10%15%17%9%12%13%13%12%6%8%15%12%15%10%10%14%18%10%12%
12%22%19%7%11%13%12%12%13%13%11%28%5%11%13%9%15%10%12%13%14%11%
4%7%6%3%4%4%4%3%4%8%4%2%2%9%2%5%3%4%
3%7%7%4%3%3%3%1%4%8%3%1%1%3%7%2%5%2%
2%3%4%3%2%1%2%2%2%2%2%2%3%
0%2%1%0%1%1%1%1%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
$1,234 $1,457 $1,455 $1,097 $1,185 $1,250 $1,241 $1,238 $1,191 $1,217 $1,239 $1,317 $1,104 $1,262 $1,218 $1,210 $1,288 $1,165 $1,229 $1,227 $1,277 $1,208
$1,225 $1,512 $1,430 $1,119 $1,257 $1,230 $1,220 $1,230 $1,240 $1,207 $1,195 $1,350 $1,068 $1,246 $1,236 $1,200 $1,255 $1,190 $1,257 $1,183 $1,264 $1,190
328 58 70 191 27 107 185 293 30 152 160 18 40 172 84 103 117 58 49 38 106 181
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 21
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Cost of living OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Ratio of selected monthly
housing costs (mortgage,
HOA, utilities) to monthly
income (Approximate;
income assumed to be
midpoint of categories)
0% - 9.9%
10% - 19.9%
20% - 29.9%
30% - 39.9%
40% - 49.9%
50% +
TOTAL
Average
Median
n =
2%2%2%3%4%1%3%3%1%4%3%1%5%6%2%2%3%2%
27%25%20%31%35%32%25%28%27%24%30%19%18%23%44%37%24%29%17%56%23%23%
34%35%39%32%15%33%37%34%31%32%35%38%34%37%28%36%44%29%15%28%35%36%
18%21%23%16%23%19%17%18%23%21%15%13%23%15%13%22%23%15%8%21%19%
9%8%8%10%8%10%10%9%15%8%12%13%11%9%7%7%4%13%24%3%8%11%
8%10%8%9%15%5%9%9%4%14%4%31%21%6%1%2%7%5%26%6%10%8%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
29%30%31%28%31%28%29%29%30%32%26%43%35%29%22%23%28%29%41%23%30%30%
25%27%26%25%26%26%24%25%28%27%24%29%27%26%21%22%25%28%39%19%26%26%
296 52 61 176 26 98 166 265 26 136 147 16 38 159 75 87 106 56 46 36 91 166
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Prefer not to respond
Dakota Ridge
Northfield Commons
Holiday Neighborhood
Northfield Village
Iris Hollow / Tabriz Flats
North Boulder
Village at Boulder Creek
Steel Yards
Kalmia 38
Peloton
Wellman Creek
Washington Village
Poplar
True Corner
Downtown Boulder
Wild Sage Cohousing
Landmark Lofts
Northern Lights
Sanitas Terrace
Uptown Broadway
Wonderland Creek
Rosewood
Trailcrossing at Lee Hill
Central Boulder
Four Mile Corner
Four Mile Creek
12.5%21.9%9.5%10.7%3.0%12.1%14.3%13.7%5.1%9.9%14.6%5.9%9.5%13.7%9.0%13.8%12.2%14.8%8.0%11.9%10.3%14.0%
11.0%1.6%18.3%18.2%15.0%8.2%9.7%20.5%13.6%9.1%11.8%14.3%9.3%14.6%13.8%10.6%4.9%14.0%9.5%12.1%10.9%
8.7%4.7%16.2%7.1%6.1%6.5%10.7%9.0%7.7%9.3%9.1%11.8%11.9%7.1%11.2%9.2%7.3%9.8%10.0%11.9%5.6%9.8%
7.8%4.7%5.4%8.6%3.0%7.5%9.2%8.7%2.6%4.9%11.0%17.6%14.3%4.9%10.1%4.6%10.6%6.6%8.0%7.1%9.3%7.3%
7.0%6.3%12.2%5.1%7.5%7.7%7.7%2.6%6.2%8.5%9.5%6.0%7.9%6.4%8.9%8.2%2.0%4.8%6.5%7.8%
5.2%4.7%7.6%18.2%7.5%2.0%4.3%10.3%7.4%3.0%11.8%4.8%6.6%2.2%3.7%6.5%4.9%6.0%11.9%3.7%4.1%
3.2%6.3%1.4%3.0%3.0%2.8%3.6%3.3%2.6%3.1%3.7%5.9%3.8%3.4%5.5%2.4%4.0%4.8%2.8%2.6%
3.2%5.6%6.1%4.7%1.5%3.3%2.6%3.7%3.0%4.4%3.4%0.9%4.9%4.9%2.0%2.4%4.7%2.6%
2.6%4.1%3.0%6.1%1.9%2.6%2.7%2.6%3.1%2.4%4.8%2.2%3.4%3.7%1.6%3.3%2.0%2.4%4.7%1.6%
2.0%1.6%6.8%0.5%3.7%1.5%2.0%2.6%2.5%1.2%2.7%2.2%0.9%4.1%1.6%4.7%1.0%
2.0%3.6%3.0%1.9%2.0%2.3%2.5%1.2%2.4%2.7%1.1%1.8%3.3%1.6%2.4%2.8%1.6%
1.7%8.1%0.9%2.6%2.0%1.2%2.4%7.1%1.6%2.8%6.0%3.1%
1.7%3.0%1.9%1.5%1.7%1.9%1.2%2.7%1.1%4.6%0.8%3.7%1.0%
1.7%9.4%1.9%1.5%1.3%2.6%1.2%1.8%2.4%1.6%1.1%1.8%0.8%1.6%4.0%2.4%0.9%2.1%
1.5%2.5%0.9%2.0%1.3%1.2%1.8%2.4%1.1%2.2%0.9%1.6%3.3%7.1%0.9%0.5%
1.5%2.5%2.8%0.5%1.3%2.6%0.6%1.2%5.9%0.5%2.2%0.9%1.6%1.6%2.0%4.8%1.9%0.5%
1.2%2.0%0.9%1.5%1.3%1.2%1.2%4.8%0.5%1.1%1.8%1.6%2.0%2.4%1.6%
1.2%2.0%0.9%1.5%1.0%2.6%2.4%1.1%1.1%0.9%0.8%3.3%2.4%0.9%1.0%
1.2%1.6%2.7%2.0%1.0%2.6%1.2%1.2%1.6%1.1%1.8%1.6%2.1%
0.9%1.6%2.7%0.9%1.0%1.0%0.6%1.2%0.5%2.2%1.8%2.0%1.6%
0.9%1.5%0.9%1.0%1.0%1.2%0.6%1.6%0.9%4.0%1.9%0.5%
0.9%4.7%0.9%1.0%1.0%1.2%0.6%1.1%1.1%0.9%0.8%1.6%1.6%
0.9%3.1%1.4%1.5%1.0%0.6%0.6%1.1%1.1%0.9%3.3%1.6%
0.9%4.7%1.5%1.0%0.6%1.2%1.1%1.8%1.6%0.9%1.0%
0.6%1.0%6.1%5.1%1.2%2.4%0.5%0.8%2.0%1.9%
0.6%2.7%0.9%0.5%0.7%1.2%0.5%1.1%0.9%2.0%0.9%0.5%
0.6%2.7%1.0%0.7%0.6%0.6%1.1%0.8%2.0%0.9%0.5%
0.6%1.0%1.0%0.7%1.2%2.2%0.8%1.6%1.0%(cont.)
Page 22
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
In what neighborhood or
complex do you live?
Kalmia 4-plex HOA
Kalmia Estates
Keewaydin
Majestic Heights
Martin Acres
Nomad Co-housing
Violet Hollow
Yarmouth Way
Silver Sage Cohousing
Remington Post
17th and Yarmouth
4 plex
Across from Canyon
America
Arborwood
Baseline Sub
boulder creek
Brandon Creek
Cattail Cove
Complex
East Boulder
Goose Creek
Grapewood
greenbelt meadows
Hobo
Hollywood
Jasmine Park
Kalmia
Kings Ridge
Mountain Terrace/ Lower Table Mesa
Near Colorado University
North Village Habitat
Park East
Silver Maple Village (Ideal Market)
Stonewall Place
Stratford Park West
Table Mesa
Vineyard Lane
Whittier Square
Yarmouth Ave
Yarmouth Park
4645 Broadway
Harmony Haven HOA
NFC
Noble Park
Shanahan Ridge 8
0.6%1.0%1.0%0.7%1.2%2.2%0.8%1.6%1.0%
0.6%2.7%3.0%0.5%0.7%1.2%2.4%0.5%4.0%0.9%0.5%
0.6%1.6%1.4%3.0%0.9%0.7%0.6%0.6%2.2%0.9%0.8%1.0%
0.6%3.1%0.9%0.5%0.3%2.6%0.6%0.6%0.5%1.1%1.8%1.0%
0.6%3.1%0.9%0.5%5.1%1.2%1.1%0.8%2.0%2.4%0.9%
0.6%1.4%0.5%3.0%0.5%0.3%2.6%0.6%0.6%5.9%1.1%0.8%1.6%0.9%0.5%
0.6%3.1%1.0%0.7%1.2%5.9%0.5%0.9%2.0%1.0%
0.6%2.7%0.9%0.5%0.7%0.6%0.6%1.1%1.6%1.0%
0.6%1.0%0.5%0.7%1.2%2.4%0.5%0.8%2.0%1.0%
0.6%1.0%0.9%0.5%0.7%1.2%1.6%0.9%0.5%
0.3%0.5%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.8%2.4%
0.3%1.4%3.0%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.8%0.5%
0.3%1.6%3.0%0.3%0.6%0.5%2.0%0.5%
0.3%1.4%3.0%0.3%0.6%1.1%1.6%0.5%
0.3%0.5%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%1.6%0.5%
0.3%0.5%0.9%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.8%0.9%
0.3%0.5%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.8%0.5%
0.3%1.6%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.9%0.5%
0.3%1.4%3.0%2.6%0.6%1.1%0.8%0.9%
0.3%1.4%0.5%0.3%0.6%1.1%0.8%0.9%
0.3%1.4%0.9%0.3%0.6%5.9%1.6%0.9%
0.3%0.5%3.0%2.6%0.6%0.5%1.6%2.4%
0.3%0.5%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%2.0%0.5%
0.3%1.6%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%1.6%0.5%
0.3%0.5%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.9%0.9%
0.3%0.5%0.9%0.3%0.6%2.4%1.6%0.5%
0.3%0.5%3.0%2.6%0.6%1.1%1.6%2.4%
0.3%1.4%0.9%0.3%0.6%0.5%1.6%0.9%
0.3%1.4%0.9%2.6%0.6%0.5%0.8%2.4%
0.3%1.6%0.9%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.8%0.9%
0.3%0.5%0.9%0.3%0.6%2.4%1.6%0.5%
0.3%1.4%0.9%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.8%0.5%
0.3%1.4%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.9%0.9%
0.3%0.5%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.9%0.5%
0.3%0.5%0.9%0.3%0.6%0.5%1.6%0.5%
0.3%0.5%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.9%0.5%
0.3%1.6%0.5%0.3%0.6%5.9%2.0%0.9%
0.3%1.6%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.9%0.5%
0.3%1.4%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.8%0.5%
0.3%0.5%0.5%0.3%0.6%1.1%0.9%0.9%
0.3%0.5%0.5%0.3%0.6%0.5%0.9%0.5%
0.3%0.9%0.3%0.6%1.1%1.6%0.9%
0.3%0.5%0.9%2.6%0.5%0.8%0.9%
0.3%1.4%0.5%2.6%1.1%0.8%0.9%
0.3%1.6%0.5%0.3%1.1%0.9%0.5%
0.3%1.4%0.3%0.6%5.9%2.0%0.5%
0.3%0.5%0.5%0.3%0.5%0.8%0.9%
(cont.)
(cont.)
Page 23
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Sunnyside - Jay Road
Pleasantview Knoll
TOTAL
n =
0.3%0.5%0.5%0.3%0.5%0.8%0.9%
0.3%1.6%0.5%0.3%0.9%0.9%
100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%100.0%
344 64 74 197 33 107 196 300 39 162 164 17 42 182 89 109 123 61 50 42 107 193
(cont.)
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Demographics OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Which category includes
your age?
25 - 34
35 - 44
45 – 54
55 - 64
65 - 74
75 or older
Prefer not to respond
TOTAL
n =
Which best describes the
total gross annual income of
your household (before
taxes)? (Average income is
calculated based on the
midpoints of the ranges;
$20K for <$30K category;
and $130K for $120K+
category)
Less than $30,000
$30,000 to $39,999
$40,000 to $49,999
$50,000 to $59,999
$60,000 to $69,999
$70,000 or $79,999
$80,000 to $89,999
$90,000 to $99,999
$100,000 to $119,999
$120,000 or more
Prefer not to respond
TOTAL
Average
n =
Does anyone in your
household have a long-term
disability?
Yes
No
Prefer not to respond
TOTAL
n =
15%4%14%19%15%16%14%16%8%14%17%5%7%15%22%15%20%13%4%33%23%7%
25%33%32%20%15%29%24%26%23%24%24%21%21%25%28%27%27%27%13%17%32%22%
25%36%22%22%26%28%23%24%28%21%28%32%21%26%24%28%22%24%25%29%20%27%
18%15%22%17%24%15%19%18%23%23%13%32%14%20%15%16%15%18%30%12%16%20%
12%7%6%16%18%6%13%11%18%13%13%11%21%13%5%9%13%11%17%10%5%17%
4%3%5%4%4%4%3%4%3%10%1%4%3%1%5%11%4%4%
1%1%4%0%3%2%1%2%2%1%5%1%1%2%2%2%1%2%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
357 67 78 203 34 113 201 313 40 166 172 19 42 187 92 113 128 62 53 42 111 201
14%9%7%18%15%11%15%15%11%17%12%22%29%12%8%5%13%18%29%10%9%18%
8%6%4%9%12%8%7%7%13%10%6%28%12%6%5%5%1%15%21%2%11%7%
13%9%8%15%18%12%13%13%16%13%13%6%20%14%10%13%13%8%17%7%12%15%
16%14%12%19%12%20%15%16%13%14%16%17%17%19%10%13%22%20%6%17%17%15%
10%11%14%9%12%10%10%10%11%10%10%5%11%14%11%12%7%8%12%10%10%
7%9%9%6%9%7%8%7%8%4%10%6%5%10%5%7%8%10%4%12%5%8%
6%6%12%3%8%6%6%5%7%5%5%7%5%7%6%7%2%2%9%5%
6%6%11%4%5%7%6%3%4%6%2%4%10%7%6%7%2%5%6%6%
5%12%3%4%9%6%5%5%5%6%5%11%6%7%6%6%2%6%20%4%3%
5%6%7%4%6%5%5%5%3%3%7%6%3%13%9%4%5%7%3%6%
10%12%14%8%6%8%12%10%13%11%9%6%5%7%12%16%10%3%6%5%14%9%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
$61,151 $69,828 $70,938 $55,931 $58,226 $63,510 $61,193 $61,505 $57,576 $56,931 $64,263 $52,353 $43,718 $60,405 $74,188 $70,904 $62,939 $56,780 $44,388 $73,846 $60,632 $58,583
317 58 64 188 31 104 176 279 33 145 156 17 39 173 80 94 114 59 49 39 95 180
12%14%10%11%18%11%11%12%13%15%9%26%21%10%9%11%9%19%11%5%12%13%
85%80%86%87%79%83%88%85%83%82%87%74%71%86%90%85%90%79%81%93%83%86%
3%6%4%2%3%6%2%3%5%3%4%7%4%1%4%2%2%8%2%5%2%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
353 66 77 201 34 111 199 308 40 164 170 19 42 184 92 108 129 62 53 42 108 200
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 24
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Demographics OVERALL
In what type of home do you live?
How would you rate your overall satisfaction with your
home?
Are you glad that you purchased
your home? Would you purchase
it again if you had the chance for a
“do-over?”
Have there been any surprises to
you as a homeowner, i.e. items you
wish you had been better informed
about before purchasing?Overall, how do you feel about your current financial situation?
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased
your home?
Do you anticipate moving out of your home within the
next five years?
Single-family
home
Townhouse /
duplex Condo
Dissatisfied /
Neutral
Somewhat
Satisfied Very Satisfied Yes No Yes No Not at all secure Not too secure
Somewhat
secure Very secure
Improved
significantly
Improved
slightly No change
Declined slightly
or significantly Yes Maybe No
Are you of
Chicano/Chicana/Mexican-
American, Latino/Latina, or
Hispanic origin?
Yes
No
Prefer not to respond
TOTAL
n =
Which best describes your
race? (Please select all that
apply)
White
Prefer not to respond
Asian or Pacific Islander
Black or African American
Other, please specify:
American Indian, Eskimo or Aleut
TOTAL
n =
3%5%3%2%3%2%4%3%2%3%5%2%4%4%2%5%2%2%2%4%
89%86%90%90%85%88%90%89%90%90%89%100%90%88%93%90%91%84%91%88%90%89%
8%9%8%7%12%11%6%8%10%8%8%5%10%2%6%8%11%8%10%8%8%
100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%100%
354 64 77 204 34 112 199 309 40 166 169 19 42 185 92 111 127 62 53 42 110 199
82%73%81%86%73%78%86%82%79%84%81%89%79%79%92%87%82%77%77%80%85%81%
10%15%6%9%15%13%7%10%11%9%10%5%12%11%2%5%9%13%17%10%8%11%
7%11%10%5%9%7%7%8%5%5%9%5%7%9%5%5%10%8%6%10%7%7%
1%3%1%1%1%1%1%2%1%2%3%1%2%2%
1%3%1%0%3%3%1%5%2%1%2%2%1%1%2%2%1%2%
0%0%0%0%1%1%1%1%
102%102%101%102%100%102%102%102%100%101%102%100%100%102%103%102%102%100%102%102%102%101%
353 66 77 201 33 110 201 310 38 164 170 19 42 185 92 111 128 61 52 41 109 200
24 Apr 19
Source: RRC Associates
Page 25
3. Respondent Comments
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey
Comments Responses
Table of Contents
In what type of home do you live? (other)...................................................................... 1
Most important factor in your decision to purchase your home: Other ........................ 1
Second most important factor in your decision to purchase your home: Other ............ 2
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased your home? ..... 3
Are you glad that you purchased your home? Would you purchase it again if you had
the chance for a “do-over?” (Yes) ................................................................................... 9
Are you glad that you purchased your home? Would you purchase it again if you had
the chance for a “do-over?” (No) .................................................................................. 14
Have there been any surprises to you as a homeowner, i.e. items you wish you had
been better informed about before purchasing? (Yes, please describe) ....................... 16
Where do the employed persons in your household work? (Other) ............................. 23
What are the main reasons you plan to move or might move? I want to live in a nicer
home, (please identify what would be nicer): ............................................................... 24
What are the main reasons you plan to move or might move? I want to live in a
different city/area, (location): ...................................................................................... 25
What are the main reasons you plan to move or might move? (Other) ........................ 26
(If you have had lump sum special assessments in the time you have owned your home)
Please indicate the approximate year(s) and amount(s) for your unit, and what the
assessment was for, if you recall: ................................................................................. 27
Which best describes your race? (Other) ...................................................................... 28
Do you have any other comments or suggestions? ...................................................... 29
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey Respondent Comments
RRC Associates 1
In what type of home do you live? (other)
Type of home (other)
4-plex
Carriage house
carriage house above 3 garages
Carriage house above 3 garages
Detached unit but do not own walls, roof
Fourplex
Loft
Studio
Most important factor in your decision to purchase your home: Other
Most Important Factor in Home Purchase (Other)
3 bedroom
And backyard
Backyard space
Beautiful mountain view
Boulder
Buses for schools
Design (non-attached carriage home that is considered condo)
Detached unit (not attached to other units)
Flat entry, no stairs
Garage or basement for storage would be perfect
Ground floor
Having our own home!
Home business
How the house felt when we walked through it.
I am only able to drag 2 items to the right. Bike path/lane access was also very important.
I am very happy and grateful for my home. I wouldn't be able to live in Boulder if it wasn't for this home. I
work in Boulder. So I am forever grateful
I co-founded the community
I got to build my house (200 hours of sweat equity) with people who were to become my neighbors and still
are for the past 15 years - amazing neighborhood because of this community aspect where we had to help
each other and get to know each other before we knew each other.
I have more to contribute if you would like to call me.
I love my home. It offers everything above.
I think this question is rather moot. The item that was 'most important' in my decision to buy the home was
whatever was available in the affordable housing program. It's not like there were tons of options and I'm
going to submit my name to the lottery for only certain ones. Make sense?
It was wonderful getting out of the rent market in Boulder
Just qualifying for affordable housing as a single person
Light (windows), air circulation, no shared walls
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey Respondent Comments
RRC Associates 2
Most Important Factor in Home Purchase (Other)
Location and availability were most important.
Location, good schools
Natural sunlight
One was available
Proximity to bike path. Having two floors Unattached garage Multiple bathrooms Ability to garden
Decent HOA fee
Proximity to work before I retired- sense of space was tight
Safety- at the time I had 2 young daughters
Size of yard
That the buildings were well maintained, and the community was fiscally responsible in order to maintain
affordability. Iris Hollow condos failed miserably on both fronts, making this condo very stressful and
ultimately financially untenable.
The view towards the west is the main reason I chose my place. Since I bought it 3 buildings have been built
in front of my building and I have lost about 40 to 50% of that view.
This unit was available and we qualified for it.
View of mountains; 2nd story west/south facing
Wanted to invest rather than rent
We needed an affordable space for our growing family. Also, we already lived in the unit as tenants.
We needed to be able to afford it
Second most important factor in your decision to purchase your home: Other
2nd Most Important Factor in Home Purchase (Other)
Affordability but HOA is too high and rising, I wish I'd purchased with no HOA
Amount of sunlight/windows=lots
At least 3 bedrooms
Availability in affordable housing process
Close to mtn
Effective, open HOA
Feeling of spaciousness
Garage space
HOA fee covers snow removal, grass cut, etc.
How home it feels
I wish there was a way to ride my bike to work
Light/cleanliness
Living close to where worked
Next to open space ranch that goes right up to panoramic view of foothills
Nice vista (views) close to community garden
Number of bedrooms
Personal growth, safety
Quality of construction
School and workplace
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey Respondent Comments
RRC Associates 3
2nd Most Important Factor in Home Purchase (Other)
Sense of community and neighborhood
Sense of safety and access to trails
SFD w/ yard
Space
The rising of HOA dues and differences in living standards are affecting my level of satisfaction
We are very happy with our home!
We wanted a single family home
How has your sense of financial security changed since you purchased your home?
Sense of Security Comments on Response
Declined significantly At the time I bought my unit I made just over the income threshold so was in the
moderate income level. The unit I bought was bigger than I wanted, but there
were not any units available that were smaller and less expensive available to
moderate income buyers. So, I have more space and more expense than I would
have preferred to buy. My income has decreased considerably and I am now
struggling to keep the unit.
Declined significantly hoa fees have gone up from $125 a month to $300 a month. Its becoming
unaffordable living
Declined significantly I will be 70 in July. I thought home would be paid off by now, I still owe
$160,000; my daughter is disabled. I am still working as a private duty LPN.
Declined significantly I'm making far more money now than I did when I purchased my condo in 2014.
However, the high dues (nearly $350/month to 2 HOAs and climbing), plus
repeated assessments due to HOA's poor financial planning, plus the board's
insistence on continuing to work with a property manager that does neither
preventative maintenance nor competitive bidding (leading to assessments for
emergency repairs totaling $7300 in 3 years and counting), have turned my
'permanently affordable' condo into a financial black hole, at any price. Now
that I'm having to flee this mess, and leave Boulder because if it, the city's
inflexibility on program rules which are vastly biased against sellers in
mismanaged communities is placing huge obstacles to selling my condo. Because
of this inflexibility, I may miss an opportunity to transition to one of the few
good, reasonably priced, market rate housing options in the county. Adequate
program design, and city staff doing more than lip service, would have prevented
this mess.
Declined significantly Significant car accident resulting in disability, aging
Declined significantly The cost of housing in Boulder is so high that I will never be able to afford
anyplace else to live. I will be stuck in my small affordable condo forever. As a
single person on a modest income, I have no other housing choices in Boulder.
Declined significantly The great recession hit me hard. In a career where I was told they could find
volunteers to do my job as I was let go. Ageism made it difficult to find new
employment. Minimal savings, no partner, no trust fund made times difficult.
Declined significantly The HOA dues keep going up, they are not affordable. I lost my job.
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey Respondent Comments
RRC Associates 4
Sense of Security Comments on Response
Declined significantly Three weeks after purchasing my condo I was laid off from my job. This has
created an increase challenge for me financially but I have been able to manage
through unemployment benefits, Medicaid, and supplementary work. I hope this
will change in the next 2 months.
Declined slightly As costs rise and income does not, I worry about not being able to afford to be
old and about my HOA's financial stability
Declined slightly Because of the way my condo was designed/built, the new water heater I
needed cost almost 5K! Seems a lot for an affordable unit
Declined slightly Declined slightly - I have serious health issues -but, 10 yrs later, I am active and
thriving and out-living my money.
Declined slightly financial security has declined somewhat due to chronic illness progression
Declined slightly HOA cost of living in Boulder continues to increase faster than my rates being
self employed
Declined slightly HOA special assessments and increases
Declined slightly I retired
Declined slightly I wish I would have known about the costs of being a homeowner--including
adding grass and landscaping to our home-this was not provided. Maintenance
expenses would have been great to be ready for--some help from the city
knowing what we'd be in for would have been great!
Declined slightly I work a BCH and the pay has not kept up the the cost of living. Increase in HOA
fees, taxes and replacing appliances because the home was purchased when the
appliances were old, matched against low equity, makes it hard to justify staying
in Boulder.
Declined slightly Making less money now.
Declined slightly Not related to Aft. Hsp. Program- difficult for seniors when costs keep escalating-
i.e. water, HOA, repairs (furnace, AC, stove, windows, paid all of these)
Declined slightly On PERA, no SS and have inherited debts
Declined slightly Retired, but working part-time
Declined slightly Rising HOA costs that were 'hidden' at the time of purchase have caused me to
work 3 jobs in order to live in Boulder, even in the affordable program.
Declined slightly The program operates as a one size fits all rules-based restrictive program that
doesn't account for varying situations and needs. It has been extremely
challenging to afford to send my son to college after being denied the ability to
rent my home for 4 years. It has been financially VERY draining to try to remodel
and maintain a 1950s era home that was in terrible shape when I bought it.
There needs to be WAY WAY more flexibility in your rules.
Declined slightly This has nothing to do with my home ownership. Other expenses have increased
more than expected.
Declined slightly We feel somewhat trapped in our home, it's in need of so many repairs. It's
challenging to come up with that money. The value of the home will not
appreciate accordingly. The value increases so slowly we feel it will cost most to
sell it in fees that we will make out of it and not afford down payment
Declined slightly We had children
No change Cost of living=income (which is fixed Social Security)
No change Disabled veteran
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey Respondent Comments
RRC Associates 5
Sense of Security Comments on Response
No change I am grateful to have a fixed mortgage payment - this is something that helps me
to remain in Boulder while the cost of pretty much everything else (food,
transportation) increases.
No change I appreciate the city's program because otherwise we would not be able to live
here let alone purchase anything. We are still living within our means even
though our home costs have been higher than estimated.
No change I purchased my home 14 years ago. I am more financial secure than I was then it
does not have to do with buying my home.
No change Mortgage has gone up, salary the same
No change Mortgage is ok, but plus HOA makes it significantly higher
No change My financial situation has not changed in regards to my income, but the monthly
HOA fee, which was already on the high end of what I could afford when I
purchased, has increased drastically in the few years since I purchased. It is now
2/3 the cost of my mortgage, and I worry I will lose my home if nothing is done
to help this situation.
No change Still trying to pay the bills. Thankful for our home.
No change The development in this area is way too much, and the other drawbacks are
greatly exacerbated by it. I expect to have to move out of state in the next year
or so to find something I can afford and actually feel at home in.
No change The HOA / utilities matches my mortgage and that has been a huge problem.
No change The resale cap is wildly too restrictive. I was forced to accept the terms of the
affordable housing program; what was promised was not what was delivered.
No change This is A better model for getting out of poverty in contrast to renting, however
it could be even better if you used the model of habitat for humanity where
after 20-30 years of ownership the owner is lifted from the program and may sell
that home for just below market rate.
No change We had to take out a home equity loan to replace all windows (they were
originally installed incorrectly) and other major repairs, so we have no equity left
in home
Improved slightly Again, I really wanted to be in the city of boulder - it had to do with which
affordable homes were available. Sometimes the rate of increase in the home
value doesn't seem fair with regard to what's really going on in the housing
market in general. the increase in value was less than what I expected.
Improved slightly Although the Affordable housing program gives much more security than renting
which I did for many years-- I feel trapped in this house since it will never go up
in value and the market rate houses in Boulder and the rest of the country have
skyrocketed. In other cities I know affordable homeowners are given a chance
to buy out their original market rate cost so that they have a chance to move out
of being the underclass.
Improved slightly As a new build, our HOA dues have gone up significantly as they were way too
low when established by the builders. I now feel that our HOA dues
($358/month) makes our home borderline unaffordable even though our
mortgage is quite affordable ($998/month). I would do more research on the
HOA and how much is going into reserves, etc. if I were purchasing again as our
home are almost unaffordable to the income limit set by City of Boulder when
the high HOA is taken into account.
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Sense of Security Comments on Response
Improved slightly Children grown and gone and I now get social security
Improved slightly Each of us work two jobs in order to live/eat in Boulder
Improved slightly HOA dues continue to go up, hopefully it will not become a burden as I age and
retire.
Improved slightly HOA fees almost double since the purchase of the home
Improved slightly HOA fees are too high all things considered
Improved slightly HOS is too high
Improved slightly I am secure with my mortgage but HOA fees continue to rise which is a financial
strain
Improved slightly I didn't realize that small home repairs can end up costing a lot of money and
take a lot of time. However, I am happy to be learning how to make these repairs
on my own. It makes me feel really independent and I like that I have complete
control over my housing situation.
Improved slightly I feel financially secure but not physically secure. Three major original
construction defects coupled with the previous owner's failure to maintain the
home cause me significant ongoing stress. The roof underlayment was shorted
on one side at the time of build and water had intruded into the east wall for 18
years and was ignored by previous owner. The wall is sure to be full of mold. The
excess flux on the original copper plumbing in the crawl space was left in place
rather than wiped off. The copper pipes are slowly corroding. The previous
owner failed to have a plumber correct one leak - she hired a handyman - so the
crawlspace experienced major moisture intrusion and had to be mitigated for
mold. The contractor used sodium hypochlorite and paint which does not kill
mold. It's still there, just covered up. The original plumber also failed to correctly
install the bathtub. More water intrusion into the ceiling below. City inspectors
failed to identify any of these builders defects. I have extreme mold sensitivities
and so far have been ok but I am one exposure away from homelessness or
needing to evacuate. In addition, the previous owner damaged everything. The
walls, doors, landscaping, everything was done incorrectly or has holes in it. She
did nothing to maintain the home, and I am stuck with tens of thousands of
dollars in deferred maintenance or incorrectly performed maintenance because
she refused to contract with a professional. There is significant water damage
under the kitchen sink. The entire kitchen and bathroom have been abused, and
need to replace everything but the City requires that each room be re-done in its
entirety. Which I can't do. I would like to split the remodel into two segments,
but the City disallows. I get wildly differing bids from contractors but if I split the
bathroom into two segments it would be significantly more affordable. I need
help from the City in managing remodels and not just turning in two bids. Not
only that but contractors come out to look at the work, and I never hear from
them again. The 'smaller' projects can't compete with the wealthy people in
Boulder who spend many tens of thousands of dollars on larger projects and
remodels.
Improved slightly I feel more wise, but less secure
Improved slightly I feel very lucky to be here, however, I wish my house was 'initially' affordable
like my friend at Iris Hollow years ago so I could then sell and get in the market
to buy a market rate house. However, since it is permanently affordable and
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didn't appreciate at all in the 1st 2 years and since it has only gone up 1-2% here
and there, it does not set me up for being able to ever leave this house.
Improved slightly I have owned my home for over 10 years. I missed the opportunity to purchase a
market value home in 2011 when prices were lower. So while I have an
affordable home, which I appreciate, I am no closer to a market value purchase.
Improved slightly I lived in a condominium at Horizon West here in Boulder. I've gained more
living space (sq footage), but I still have about the same expenses with utilities,
HOA fees (slightly higher here and a slightly lower mortgage payment depending
on interest rates, etc) The advantage of being here is that I'm still in Boulder and
with the crazy appreciation of property here in Boulder, I can still afford to live
here and enjoy all the 'the everything' that is Boulder!! (Parks, hiking/biking
trails, Sr Center, BIFF, climate and interesting well-educated people),.SOOO
much. Plus the 'happiest city' in the U,S.
Improved slightly It is incredibly helpful to be able to afford a home in Boulder while working for a
nonprofit.
Improved slightly My employee cut out cost of living raises in 2009 and I've not been able to get
ahead since then
Improved slightly Predictable increase in salary with BVSD helps a lot!
Improved slightly Sense of life plan security much higher
Improved slightly slightly improved due to inheritance
Improved slightly Social Security kicked in (not enough for my life but I still work, so has improved
my living situation)
Improved slightly Thank you for the program.
Improved slightly The house has allowed me to work part-time while our child is a toddler
Improved slightly This housing was an absolute a necessity thing for us and we are very grateful to
City of Boulder Affordable Housing Program, that we got this . But we always
loved a single home with lot more outside space and little yard at least. But we
didn't have any choice and time to wait. The HOA seems to be very irresponsible
because twice our car was broken into my assigned parking I informed the HOA
through email and over the phone no actions were taken at all. There is no
surveillance camera too and we have let HOA know no actions. Also, there is no
any community garden or pool or something like that. It would be very good if
we had something like that so kids could have fun instead go out and pay every
time. It's just a suggestion. More improvements is needed on HOA part and bring
out with ideas how can we all community get together in some kind of garden
pool park etc
Improved slightly When we purchased our homes as new builds from the builders, the HOA fee
charged ($303/month per unit) was not at all appropriate to ensure the reserves,
etc. needed for the organization to be fiscally responsible. We have struggled
over the past few years to raise dues to make the HOA more secure, which is
hard to do when low income affordable homeowners are not all in financially
secure positions with their current situations. At this point, our HOA is already
$100 more/month than when I purchased the home in 2013 and will likely go as
high as $500/month. We are unsure how this will impact the income levels
allowed during the sale process as this is a significant difference in price and
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affordability and should be reflected in the income levels permitted in order for
folks to be able to afford these homes.
Improved slightly while my personal expenses are on track & expected, the HOA expenses & costs
of maintenance are ridiculously high - it is not 'affordable' for that reason.
Improved significantly Before I bought my house, I was paying nearly 75% of my income for rent
Improved significantly Buying this home has allowed me to change careers to be a life coach which is
what I really want to do! I'm very glad I decided to purchase it.
Improved significantly Except for recent assessments, buying was a great idea
Improved significantly Higher income/employment has drastically improved this
Improved significantly HOA has gone up plus there was a $300 assessment for 2018
Improved significantly Housing cost stabilization and have since married (two income household).
Improved significantly I am grateful I have a fixed mortgage and that I am not renting for I wouldn't be
able to afford to rent in Boulder.
Improved significantly I am much happier.
Improved significantly I am now married, 2 incomes helps a lot
Improved significantly I am very happy to own my single family home. It is my future and my present
security
Improved significantly I can't even tell you how grateful I am to be securely in a townhome in Boulder!!
Improved significantly I could never save when I was renting
Improved significantly I do not worry about increases
Improved significantly I don't have to move to Longmont or beyond
Improved significantly I feel so lucky and privileged to be living in an affordable home. I love my home
and enjoy greater financial security as a result
Improved significantly I feel very fortunate to have a mortgage to call my own - right here in Boulder.
Improved significantly I feel very, very fortunate to have bought a home. I am single and a teacher;
without a spouse I probably would never have been able to purchase a home
here.
Improved significantly I have had control over my expenses, I pay more on principal when I can and that
helps me plan for retirement.
Improved significantly I know I'll always be able to afford
Improved significantly I thought I wouldn't be able to stay in Boulder, and might have to move back to
another state for free rent
Improved significantly I'm 'in the flow' of the extra expenses that come with owning a house. I have
gotten several raises since buying my home.
Improved significantly Love the program! I recommend it to everyone that I think would be interested.
We would buy a single family home if there were more available. Thanks!
Improved significantly Much cheaper than rent
Improved significantly My first home purchase- thank you for being able to invest in my home rather
than renting!
Improved significantly My mortgage for a new 3 BR single family home is $600 less than my rent was
for a 2 BR townhouse
Improved significantly My mortgage is about half of what Boulder renters pay each month!
Improved significantly No
Improved significantly not sure how I will manage eventual retirement
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Sense of Security Comments on Response
Improved significantly Our current home is a major piece in our family planning.
Improved significantly Our HOA is very unsettled. We get a new management company every year due
to miss management They over charge us for our dues. And they keep raising
our dues. Very unethical. And illegal!
Improved significantly Overall monthly cost is less than renting and more stable
Improved significantly Owning a home in Boulder feels so good!!
Improved significantly Smartest thing I did in my 20's!
Improved significantly Stable payment means able to root here socially
Improved significantly The house is a significant life changer
Improved significantly The stability of owning this home has positively affected my confidence and
belief in my ability and I perform better in my job
Improved significantly This enabled me to 1) get out of debt, 2) invest in my business and hire an
employee
Improved significantly This program has allowed me to get on my feet financially and stay there.
Improved significantly Used to pay $1800 in rent for a 3BR townhome, rent was going up every year
and it was impossible to get ahead, especially with 3 young children. This has
afforded us to start paying off debt!
It has gone up and down with employment
Are you glad that you purchased your home? Would you purchase it again if you had
the chance for a “do-over?” (Yes)
Would you Purchase Again? (Yes)
A garage or carport would be nice
Absolutely
Absolutely
Absolutely
Absolutely- so happy with it
Absolutely! Best thing ever!
Absolutely! I never would've purchased a home without this program!
Absolutely! I recommend the program to lots of people.
Absolutely!!!
Absolutely. I am so grateful that Boulder continues to support this program.
Absolutley. I am so grateful for this opportunity and it has changed by life and my kid's lives.
AFFORDABLE
All good - have been enjoying owning home in Boulder
Although energy efficiency wasn't a factor when I was choosing a home, it is one of the things I have come
to greatly appreciate... I pay less in energy costs in this home than I paid renting apartments before that
were 1/3 of the size.
Amazing opportunity for families, rent in Boulder is almost impossible for low-middle class families to
afford and ever get ahead... this allowed us to start paying off debt and get off the 'system'! No longer
dependent on state resources!!!!
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Would you Purchase Again? (Yes)
As I watch neighbors sell there homes for 800K or more, and mine ~320K, I'm beginning to rethink whether
I'd do it again!
because no other viable options existed to live in Boulder
Beside previously stated HOA dues issue, I am very satisfied with my home
Beyond grateful
But I am VERY uphappy with skyrocketing HOA fees and lack of good HOA management
But serious disappointed by lack of BHP/City support and follow up over 23 years
But wish the appreciation were higher
But, a different condo complex with lower HOA
Cohousing community is better than I imagined
Dealing with Flatirons Habitat for Humanity was a terrible and traumatic experience for my whole family
Definitely YES. We love this house!
Did not anticipate the builder's defects that the City inspectors failed to identify and the previous owner's
extreme neglect and poor decisions. I will spend tens of thousands of dollars just to recover from both.
Equity very important
Extremely satisfied! Could never have lived in Boulder without the Affordable program.
Given the nature of real estate market in Boulder, we feel fortunate to have had our current residence.
Our thanks and appreciation to the Boulder Affordable housing program.
Glad I purchased - might be a problem if HOA keeps increasing
Glad I purchased, but feel trapped. I can't afford anything else in Boulder and home barely appreciates.
Feels like the train is leaving without me!
Grateful to have steady mortgage payment instead of outrageous rents due to greedy landlords in Boulder
Gratitude
Great community here, good fit for us
great decision but stairs going up will become an issue as I age--knees. Love the neighborhood--quiet and
no one lets their dog bark for more than 60 seconds. I know because I'm retired and and home most of the
days and THANK GOD, it’s quiet and I don't have to deal with irresponsible neighbors or dog control. I'm
soooo happy about that. Also, I watch the crime reports in the Boulder Camera--very few problems out
here ---so far. Hope it remains that way.
Great experience since it was my first time buying a home!
Great home and location!
Home improvement with credit over 10 year olds
Homeownership provides specific material advantages that are very helpful for one with a lower-end
income; likewise more opportunity for creativity.
However we hope it doesn't flood in the future
However, I feel trapped in a smaller place due to market and making middle income salary that is too high
for most homes for sale in the program now
I am fortunate to have windows 360* and be above grade and live in cohousing with great people
I am glad to have purchased it. If 'do-over,' perhaps would wait (but demand does not make that easy).
I am grateful for this program
I am paying much less for housing per month
I am so grateful to Boulder's Affordable Housing!
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Would you Purchase Again? (Yes)
I am very glad for living here
I am very happy with my home and generally glad I purchased, but I worry about the extremely high and
rapidly rising HOA fees. There are no affordable home options in Boulder that don't have an HOA fee
attached, and this is a regular monthly fee that dramatically impacts affordability, yet currently NOTHING is
being done to address the affordability of the HOA fee itself. The price of the home is controlled, and
therefore the mortgage and property taxes are proportionally affordable, but not the HOA fees. I worry I
will lose my home due to this if nothing changes.
I am very happy with my purchase and would not have been able to afford to live in Boulder if not for this
wonderful program. I now am able to bike to work and do my shopping easily.
I am very, very happy with this home and with this program! I feel so fortunate.
I can stay in Boulder, thank you
I could not afford to live in Boulder if I had not purchased. It is disappointing that we will need to leave
town to find a larger home
I do feel that the city's annual increase in the selling price of the house is too small, especially if inflation
becomes an issue in the economy.
I do not regularly receive income for my line of work (self-employed) and had no better option.
I got married, so it would be nice if I had 2 bedrooms
I like my condo- the HOA is A LOT- makes this decision hard
I like my house and my neighbors
I like the home ownership program
I love my apt
I love my home and neighborhood, HOA is a big issue
I love my home outside of it being very small for 6 people
I love my home, but being mixed with market rate housing has some pros and cons. There is definitely a
noticeable difference between the haves and have nots. My unit does not include laundry, air conditioning,
or ceiling fans whereas the other units do (something I learned after purchasing). Since my unit is smaller
and therefore pays less HOA fees, I sometimes finding myself defending my right to access community
amenities from other members of the community.
I love my home, but the growing financial burdens are no longer worth the sacrifice to live in Boulder.
I love my house! I feel incredibly fortunate to own it
I love my house! I have a lot of pride in ownership.
I love my place and though I don't have the resources to make some of the upgrades that I wanted to do
when I moved in, I am happy that I was in the program for two years, stuck it out and would definitely
would go through the process again if needed.
I love where I live. I would not have been able to buy a home in Boulder without affordable housing
assistance.
I purchased in 2011, after the recession. I hesitate saying definitely yes since had I purchased outside the
program, I may have had less quality or location advantage but could have profited from the appreciation
outside of the program. Can't predict the future, though, and I've been very satisfied overall.
I really like the unit I bought and would not have been able to if it were not for the affordable housing
program.
I was very fortunate!
I wish the city had inspected it better- windows, not good condition
I would choose a larger home to make room for life changes
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Would you Purchase Again? (Yes)
I would definitely do this again
I would have purchased sooner.
I would have to participate in the city's housing program because there's no other way I could afford to
own a home in Boulder. I wish the City weren't so involved in my home ownership. (the rules) It feels like
the City is my Mom and Dad.
I would hope to find a home with a basement to finish
I would like to apply for 3 bed room or more space house
I would love a 3 bedroom, we are 3 in the house, and less stairs
I would purchase again. I wish there were more options in the program for homes with a garage and/or
yard. The layout of my condo is weird - it shares an outer entrance with a renter which feels like a lack of
privacy. I may have held out for a different home if I felt good about the options in the program.
I would, however the quality of the home in how it was built is terrible. I would hope the city could ensure
that the homes in the affordable housing program are built with more intergrity and higher quality. As a
new homeowner I assumed the house wouldn't have significant maintenance issues and other capital
improvement needs within the first 3 years, however myself and ALL of my neighbors have experienced
several flooding issues due to poor quality of material used (pipes breaking or pipes that were never
attached properly) Yarmouth Way. I've had to invest several thousands into fixing the issues because of
the poor quality of the building.
I'd like to have a garden, but I'm on the 3rd floor
I'd love a garden path and utility sink- minor short comings
I'd love to find a larger unit with a back yard and porch.
I'd prefer a garage, and/or 2nd bedroom, but the low cost of my current home is a weighing benefit
if we have a chance to do over again, we will find single home with low HOA. the HOA is $328 per month
now. Can't imagine what it will be in next five years.
If we would have qualified for a home with 3 bedrooms we would have taken that opportunity. However
we have enjoyed our current home
I'm able to save faster, but not to the point where I see myself buying a market rate house in the next 10
years
I'm concerned about how high our HOA is becoming and being able to resell to someone in the program.
I'm glad I bought this home, but I would not buy an affordable home again in the future.
I'm glad- may not do a do-over but wanted a NEW home
I'm happy because I was living in my truck, once my lease expired
I'm not sure. yes, if the contstruction and materials used were better or defects were repaired immediately
It enabled me to live/work in Boulder
It enabled me to stay in Boulder
It helped me out so much when I needed it most
It is good for them, who can't rapidly increase their income and stay in lower living cost
It is nice to not have to answer to a landlord and not to have to worry about a lease ending
It is the only thing that let's me age in place
It was a very good decision and timing was very good. I'm not sure we could get an equivalent home in
Boulder now...
It was an experiment with AHA and Wolff Lyon to have this sweat equity portion of the buying process and
it has been amazing. Managing our own HOA has been tough but worth it as I have friends whose HOA
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Would you Purchase Again? (Yes)
dues are exorbitant and ours have remained low because of low overhead and we all work together to
keep our community looking great and operating a low expense with money in reserves. Several neighbors
have done a lot of work over the years to make this situation sustainable. A couple neighbors are not so
helpful, but the majority have taken the lead and it is an incredible situation where we can keep costs low,
maintain our community space together through workdays, and feeling like we are safe knowing each
other is there for one another. I am a single woman and I am lucky to have people around me that I can
rely on if need be.
Larger, too small, no storage
Living in Boulder city limits was the most important. I wish I had a space for a garden though.
Love my home
Love the location
Lower taxes, allowed us to have a kid
Maybe
Might have held out for a 2 BR, but pleased overall
Most definitely! I feel like I at least have the chance to save money here. If I had continued to rent, the
prices could have kept going up every month and it would have made it so I could never save money.
My only 'do-over' would be purchasing at market rate for market appreciation.
Near my working place
No doubt, I would do it again
No regrets, thus far, because we hear of skyrocketing housing costs.
Not sure- affordable was the only way here in Boulder, not my wish because of the low profit
Only way we could buy a decent place to live in town
Owning our condo has made it possible for us to live without as much stress around finances.
Purchasing an affordable housing unit was the best decision ever!
So glad for Boulder permanently affordable housing!!!
So grateful! Love it! Love it! Happy! Happy!
So grateful! Best decision
So happy
So nice not having to deal with landlords or renewal paperwork. Love being able to say that we own our
home
So so happy to be home! This place is perfect!
Thank you for the opportunity
Thank you for this opportunity !!
Thank you!
The affordability and location of my home are both excellent. I am concerned about the massive
development of CU across the street. This plus the decision to remove one lane of car travel in each
direction of Colorado Ave. in favor of bus lanes makes me concerned that my current location will become
a less desirable place to live.
The affordable housing program has allowed me to live in Boulder, so I am very appreciative of that.
The benefits outweigh the escalating costs (somewhat)
The HOA fee will eventually cause us to HAVE to leave
This home or others in the program (more bedrooms)
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Would you Purchase Again? (Yes)
This opportunity has been one of the best things that's ever happened to me.
Though I would consider more carefully the other residents nearby since my upstairs neighbor has three
times caused damage in my home.
Unfortunately I've had my home long enough that the value of the home is less in today's dollars than the
original cost—purely based on the inflation of the dollar.
Very glad, meets my needs
Very thankful...maybe wish I could have bought with better opportunity as an investment.
Was the only way I would own in Boulder
We are very grateful for this opportunity to improve our lives, especially now that we have a baby on the
way
We love our house.
We love the decision- we hike so much!
We really appreciate the program and that it allowed us to purchase a home in Boulder. We speak highly
of it to friends
We thank our lucky stars EVERY DAY!
We would not be able to buy without City of Boulder help
We're very grateful!!!
Wish I had waited for a better fit
Wish there is a way to buy out of the program
Wished we would have moved to keep with Boulder housing market
Would be ideal if I had a backyard though and better HOA. HOA fees are extremely high for the very little
we get from HOA.
Yes
Yes I am glad that I have a helper over my head and don't have to pay rent and that money go nowhere.
I'm building my asset. Yes I would absolutely do it again if I'm allowed to do it again. But now single home
with some space outside so I could do my garden and yard.
Yes, I love my home and that it is very affordable! It's not perfect but I'm very thankful.
Yes, we would because we are both teachers and this home has allowed us to live in the town where we
teach.
Yes, we would purchase our home again if given the chance. The surroundings are peaceful and beautiful
and we love it.
Yes-though I would have put less money down so that I had more money to help equip our home w
additional storage, etc.
Are you glad that you purchased your home? Would you purchase it again if you had
the chance for a “do-over?” (No)
Would you Purchase Again? (No)
Bad investment- fixed appreciation
Because BVSD did not allow our child w/disabilities back to his neighborhood school
Because I cannot afford the market house anymore after the big bump of the market price
Because of the extreme conflict of the HOA, the living situation is pretty bad
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Would you Purchase Again? (No)
Because with the way the value increases are calculated, you actually lose money owning a home through
the affordable program
Being in affordable housing has made it impossible to earn any $ on the home, which is very disappointing.
Excessive Microwave radiation from 14 Smart meters outside home
I didn't have a place to live at that point, so that forced my hand
I feel trapped- wish I'd bough in Gunbarrel those year ago. I am unable to afford anything in the regular
market and really need to move
I guess I'd like a little more space, a second bedroom
I would have waited for a market rate property to be available.
I would not have a do-over. I'm very content
I would not purchase an older home nor recommend anyone else do so given the tight restrictions on
capital improvements. Its a terrible financial deal for anyone. I would only purchase new construction in
your program.
I would not purchase in the program because HOAs make affordable housing extremely affordable and the
City has yet to step in and offer guidance
I would purchase a different home that was better constructed & nicer
I'm happy to be in the housing program; I wouldn't be able to own without it. And overall I'm happy with
the house. It was hard to pick between yes and no. It's that I've learned some things about myself
regarding home ownership. Were I to choose again, I would want a smaller house, and I'd prefer a garage
over a basement. I thought I would be fine with caring for the yard, but I'd prefer not to.
It is too noisy and there are many repair issues, the building is not very sound
It's not the walkable neighborhood we were led to believe we'd get. As my neighbor's homes have sky
rocketed in value, it's tough to see my place gain no value. I'm able to stay in Boulder, but I'm always
strapped for money in this expensive town. I'm surrounded by pricey restaurants, cars, and homes and
don't feel I fit in.
Loss of equity from a regular priced home. I can now only afford to buy another affordable home because
housing prices have gone up so much!
Missing out of market appreciation is a big regret
My house and location wonderful. I do not need more space but I wish I had different space. I love to
entertain and the layout is terrible for that. I am unable to afford anything else in Boulder but no longer
qualify for the middle income levels. I am just over the limit. I feel strongly that the city needs to adjust the
income levels. I can afford more but nothing at market rate in Boulders current market.
No way to gain from owning once I would sell it- as previously described- habitat for humanity has a better
model here
Not a good design for aging, stairs inside
Not this type HOA condo
Obviously, had I known the market would rise as much as it did in surrounding areas, I would have
purchased market value as the same price home in 2013 would have appreciated quite a bit. Further, now
knowing how insecure the HOA is based on the inappropriately low fees charged by the builders makes me
worry about future large special assessments and/or continued significant increases in HOA dues. I also
have an amazing neighbor now, but if someone else moves in, with the lack of quality sound proofing
between walls and between our house and the garages, I worry about the impact on our home. Lastly, the
poor quality of the finishes were unknown given it was a new build but makes the 10 and 20 year wait for
updates on flooring and kitchen to get equity in the house per Boulder Affordable rules very challenging
even with the best of care.
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Would you Purchase Again? (No)
Poorly run HOA, problems with Affordable Housing Department
Purchased before it was built and was given something other than what I had agreed upon, appreciation is
less than I expected considering the median income and house prices in boulder
Shortcuts in building have created expensive and complicated repairs. I would rent if I could afford it and if
amount was stable.
The appreciation and HOA dues
The building has turned out to be a money pit. H.O.A. dues have increased a lot to make repairs.
The city program radically changed the terms of our moderate income housing deal at the last second. I
bought my home at market rate, but was saddled with 1.8% appreciation over the last 20 years and am
now ghetttoized into affordable housing, meaning I am now so far behind the real estate market that I will
never be able to leave affordable housing.
The neighbors like to listen to music with heavy bass that travels through our walls. It's driving my
girlfriend to consider leaving me.
Too expensive
We bought it and ended up having to sink major $ into it
We had building flaws, went to court and won. Reconstruction of the whole block. Unconscionable what
builder, Markel did or not do, cut corners. The City of Boulder Affordable Housing took no responsibility.
City inspectors were immune from the lawsuit.
When bought this home market was low and we could make more equity, now our home is not worth as
much other properties
When I bought my home, I could have bought similarly priced, but not as nice or close to trails. The price of
those is not $100,000 more than mine. This is a wonderful program, but can also be a trap.
Wish we had more options. It was pretty rundown and needs more work that we can put into it. Many of
the neighboring cottage are in similar shape and we feel embarassed living here, surrounded by fancy
Boulder houses
Would NEVER have purchased a lower unit, I can hear everything upstairs
Would prefer a single family home
Would way prefer space/storage and minimal HOA fees of a single home
Have there been any surprises to you as a homeowner, i.e. items you wish you had
been better informed about before purchasing? (Yes, please describe)
Surprises as a Homeowner
3 Assessments to cover building maintenance that has been described as “faulty construction.” The city
and developers should take more responsibility for these issues and inform the potential buyers of the
risks.
A house designed for a person with a disability needs a garage. HOA very limited by lack of support by
neighbors.
Again, the HOA dues issue
Banks of 14-28 smart meters outside home.
Basement can't stand (need bow go in) if pipe broken go down and fix difficult
Being saddled with an out of control, for profit HOA organization, bent on gouging affordable homeowners
all the way to the bank
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Surprises as a Homeowner
Challenges with HOA’s and CoHousing communities. How do us poor folks make sure the roofs and
heaters are going to be fixed in the future when other market rate owners cashing in within a couple years
vote for expensive DJ’s at parties and patio furniture
City does not protect you against other affordable owners not obeying HOA laws and putting in non
soundproof flooring. once you are in the housing all they care about is their own interest
City Housing Prgm deceitful: prior to purchase, told that no bldg allowed to contain only affordable units
to prevent builder from bldg poor quality units - my bldg and others are affordable only w/matching poor
quality. Another is despite having all 3 FICOs in 800s, I had to pay higher mortg rates simply because unit
was affordable & lack of mortg providers having competitive rates. 3rd, incredibly poor quality of unit,
which was new construction - 3 pgs of improper installs, defective materials & poor quality workmanship.
4th: I had to pay more for mechanicals as City severely limits choices for them - HW heater, a/c, etc due to
hi efficiency reqs, but interestingly the City allows builders to install windows and kitch/bath vents which
allow for significant air/heat loss; 5th the City’s unwillingness to ensure HOA fees remain affordable; 6th
selling my affordable issues - there's more
City permit won't allow a basement suite
Clubhouse lie, HOA dues lie, quality of construction lie, who owns the land
Compared to my previous situation, my bills are higher than expected but over all I would not count that ss
a deterrent to OWNING my home. Especially given its purchase price, location and comfort. I am very
proud to be where I am at!
Cost of HOA
Didn't realize it would be such a trap to be in the program
Energy efficiency of our home. Windows, heating system are all in rough shape and I’m not sure our
inspector would've caught it if he had been looking.
Escalating HOA fee
Except for how bad the HOA can be and they can raise the HOA charge by so much.
Expensive HOA fees, poor HOA, electrical wiring through home incorrect
Flood plain and easement concepts could have been an area of better understanding. But, my house is
out of the flood plain now. I wish the Smart Grid City experiment had never happened in my life. I've been
disabled since they put the thing on my house, and in the neighborhood. Also, about the cell towers on
Golden West. It’s not fair that my neighborhood is bathed in RF with levels up to 500 microW/m2, while
many neighborhoods, residential areas are virtually natural.
For my particular situation, that there are separate HOAs within the same division. It is logical, and yet
problematic.
Garage is small- cannot park in the garage
Good surprise- ability for short term rental enabled me to care for again parent
Habitat refused to make repairs in any home in our HOA, even during the first year of the warranty.
Flatirons Habitat for Humanity needs to be investigated for all the ways it screws over their homeowners.
Having noisy upstairs neighbors!
Hoa amount and repairs within my community.
HOA and increases and escalations
HOA cost increases
HOA costs
HOA costs & lack of control over them (even as a board member); lack of knowledge of board members
who do not seem to want to educate themselves as to their responsibilities, rules, laws, etc
HOA costs more than expected and does not pay for what it's worth.
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Surprises as a Homeowner
HOA costs, Airbnb restrictions, changes made to rental policies
HOA dues- $392 currently
HOA dues and not informed that affordable housing does not inform purchasers that these costs may
increase significantly and that affordable housing offer NO assistance with these increases
HOA dues increasing significantly
HOA dues not affordable- keep going up. The city should have a sliding scale for HOA dues.
HOA dues- they were advertised at 50% less than what they actually are
HOA dues/issue with leaking in garage/storage since day 1. Not addressed by construction company.
Construction Co (Deneuve) very sneaky and not responding to concerns.
HOA dynamics!
Hoa fees
HOA fees
HOA fees and rules are awful
HOA fees are charged based on size of unit, I live alone in a large unit, feel exorbitant
HOA fees going up every year.
HOA fees have almost doubled
HOA fees have increased excessively
HOA fees increased by approx. 50%. HOA is slightly less than half of my overall Mortgage, it is more than I
can afford
HOA fees- rising every year- from $125/month to $265/month and continuing upward. Should have
separate rate for AFFORDABLE housing
HOA increased by $5.00 w/in same month
HOA is a nightmare, has increased from $300/month to $380/month, can barely afford
HOA issues- water metering/submetering for townhome units
HOA rising and many appliances that were cheap and had to be replaced. Wish I had finished basement
early on
HOA run by same folks since early years, no election, lack of accountability to owners for accounting when
asked for documentation and more
hoa was $75 pre purchase ..... was not ever reasonable
HOA was already high, but increased by $200 soon after moving in. HOA is very poorly managed.
HOA was priced by builder at low cost to sell, this was not upfront, so now our HOA's continue to increase
significantly which is difficult
HOA's weren't disclosed properly
Homeless population has increased and overall sense of security is lower
Homeowner class should be taken before fill out the application form
How appreciation is calculated. I thought it would be calculated as a percentage increase from previous
year value not on purchase price
How often my mortgage has been sold (5 times in 6 years)
How other units on our level flooded during the flood
How to more carefully do a walk-through with the builder and ask for remedies before moving in
How vexing HOA's can be in mixed-deed situation
I am paying HOA reserves for the next resident. I am not compensated as a homeowner, for improving and
maintaining my home (i.e. can't add to resale value).
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Surprises as a Homeowner
I didn't realize my HOA dues would keep increasing- now over 1/3 of my mortgage! That's not affordable
housing.
I didn't realize HOA dues would keep going up.
I'd never been part of an HOA before and didn't realize the kinds of problems that could arise with other
owners.
I failed to comprehend the major maintenance issues related to construction defects that the City
inspector failed to identify and the major neglect and poor decisions made by the previous owner.
I had to pay my realtor out of pocket for my unit since somehow my listing allowed the developer to do
this to me. I had to pay out of pocket for several construction defects and do not feel that my home met
building code. I do not feel very secure about HOA fees, since affordable units are in the minority.
I like my place more than I expected
I took a home buying course in Boulder over 2-3 Saturdays 15 years ago and I had to redo it because time
expired. That was frustrating but when I took it in Denver off Santa Fe, I learned more in one evening than
in the 3 Saturdays in Boulder. I think new homeowners should be able to work with mortgage people who
are sensitive to their situation. Diane Cunningham was amazingly helpful and knowledgeable and held my
hand through this process. I sent her to several friends and they all had the same experience.
I understood I could always have a roommate and did not understand it had to be approved- as well as
friends and family even visiting!
I was a bit disappointed in how much the HOA costs for how little we receive such as common amenities.
Other buildings have gyms, theaters, pools, etc. and their HOA fee is much less than what we pay. I wish
we could find a better system for less money or have more common amenities.
I was not told that both units in the duplex are on the same water supply and meter. It wouldn't have
affected decision, but it shouldn't have been a surprise.
I wasn't able to get into a homeowner’s class (full with waiting lists) until a week before my closing. This
fulfilled the requirements, but it was too late for me to apply many of the valuable things I would have
learned from this class. Also, I specifically asked about removing PMI from my mortgage payment through
using the assessed value of the home and was told it wasn't possible, then 4 years later I learned it is
possible and was able to remove PMI, though I had to pay for an additional assessment. I wish I had not
paid PMI unnecessarily for 4 years.
I wish I had hired a better inspector
I wish I had known about the huge construction projects on three sides on my neighborhood that started
about a year after I moved in and are on-going... these projects have increased noise, parking disputes,
congestion, traffic and dog poop in the neighborhood. I really won't benefit from any increase in property
value when the projects are complete the way my market-rate neighbors will.
I wish I knew and understood the purchasing process (before, during, after) for real estate MUCH better --
it's complicated and not that easy to get information, though I tried to be absolutely informed and
understanding of the process, I fell short of that.
I wish it had been set up to facilitate getting solar PV panels and solar water heaters.
I wish my affordable housing neighbors as a whole would have been better informed of what it costs to
fund the HOA to healthy levels. It seems that they expect costs to maintain the homes exteriors to be
lower than they are and it is a struggle to raise dues.
I wish we had been educated on the importance of the home inspection
I would buy this house earlier if I had been better informed
I would like to pass my property to my children
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Surprises as a Homeowner
Imbalance of HOA costs between market rate and PA homes. HOA costs have stabilized some as other
homes have gained renters and that has helped but in the early 2010's costs went up substantially. I won't
be able to retire until my late 60's.
Inability to have any sort of out building
increase in HOA's I wish I had a choice of an affordable home with a small yard that I would keep up rather
than HOA's
Increase in HOA's, some of the rules with that
Increasing HOA per month is very high
Insurance on special assessments, insurance on hail damage deductible
It would be good to provide potential buyers with information about homeowners insurance. What is
covered and not covered and how much coverage they should have (ballpark suggestions).
Landscaping costs
lawn maintenance ($ and time) and general home repair (timeline and $)
Maintenance issues
More secure hoa dues. No price gouging
Most work wasn't permitted and I'm going to have to do it over again with permits.
My HOA dues went up quite a bit. There is a perceived divide between condos and ingle family homes
needs and desires in my neighborhood.
My HOA finances were not what I was lead to think they were
Neighbor dynamics, electrical issues, temperature issues
No a/c, common space can be rented out and made unavailable to HOA members
Noise
Noise from neighbors
Not enough money in H.O.A. reserve fund to keep up with repairs--dues increased to make up the
difference.
Not really, HOA fees doubled over 8 years, that's about it
Nothing really big. I'm mostly just disappointed in how much my HOA fees are and how little my housing
complex seems to do with that money for how much I pay each month. I had heard that complaint from
others who owned houses but just didn't fully realize how frustrating it was. I also recently learned that if
your toilet is leaking, you should fix it right away because it can have a big impact on your water bill.
Only that my water stopped working when the home was only 3 years old and it cost $1200 to repair
Only the HOA
Our HOA fees have gone up exponentially. I with it could be controlled increased like our value increase
Our house is old and it seems that over the year previous owners update some of the features. However,
our electric lines seems to be messed up...and it seems it would be quite expensive to fix it all.
Our Master HOA is interesting. There is definitely feelings of “againstness”' by “regular” homeowners to
affordable homeowners.
Overall home maintenance and repairs
Planning budget for repairs and maintenance over time
Poor construction led to sue builders. HOA over doubled and keeps increasing. Being a part of a master
Assn. has challenges since there are million dollar homes/townhomes and condos with different
expectation and financial concerns
Poor upkeep by previous owners because fixed appreciation, no storage
power distribution between market rate home owners and those in affordables
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Surprises as a Homeowner
Pre-existing problem
Quality of home- no windows, low grade fixtures, finished, sound issues, insurance (unit above leaked onto
mine 1 month after purchase- I had to pay for reno)
Rise in HOA fees, parking issues
See above explanation with regards to the specific community
Since the HOA owns the roof, I can't put up solar panels.
Snow plow issues in the middle of the night, homeless/transients hanging around.
Some bad relations among neighbors, but it's ok
Some of the maintenance issues
Sound proofing- living in condo. I wish I would have looked more into this issue
That a neighbor who didn't deserve to be in the program, got in because of some illegal doings and it
shows!!
That Boulder's public transportation (RTD) does NOT serve ELDERLY FOLKS in city affordables to own or to
rent
That I could purchase another home while still owning this one
That the HOA dues are not adjusted people in this program
That the HOA fees go up every year.
That the HOA is not regulated by Affordable Housing
That there were 2 HOA dues. Never thought that the HOA would be more than my mortgage. Also the
special assessment.
That to finish the basement was not going to cost $25k but instead was going to cost $65k. And now we
need new windows and driveway. Older home with old windows, driveway in bad shape
The 2 HOA we are under, oliday ace Flatirons Habitat for Humanity is a badly run organization that left us
homes that have serious problems based on poor building
The amount of expensive special assessments by our HOA to cover repairs/maintenance on the building.
The annual return has been way less than expected
The appreciation in value determined by the program has been less than the inflation of the dollar over the
time period of my home ownership. Essentially my home is with less now that what I paid for it.
The building was badly built, to make it affordable and has many problems
the construction, development plans
The continuous increase of HOA fees with less service from landscaping and snow removal. But I also
understand that everything goes up so it would have been difficult to predict how much, how often, and
need for reserves initially
The cost to repair items because I rented for so many years before purchasing the condo
The developer/builder was at fault for many design/construction errors and had to be sued to get most of
them corrected. Some were never fixed, which is disappointing
The expense to do basic improvements to compensate for cheap, poor craftsmanship of affordable homes
put affordable owners at a great disadvantage
The HOA fees are a burden. Particularly those for the master HOA. We live in a mixed neighborhood that
is comprised of affordable and market rate units. We have an HOA for our affordable units where I live but
the master HOA is comprised of market rate large single family homes that are worth over $1M. The
financial mindset of the master HOA members in single family homes is very different than the affordable
homes and the HOA undertakes a lot of vanity projects in the nearby park that has no amenities. As an
affordable homeowner I have to pay the same fees for the master as the single families, and they have
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Surprises as a Homeowner
raised it by 20%, resulting in fees for an empty park of over $360 a year. This is not affordable for low
income families and this should be better thought out about how master fees can burden low income
homeowners (in addition to the regular HOA fees).
The HOA is a nightmare, mismanaged and expensive
The HOA is not financially stable and the fees keep going up.
The home is older, 1960 build and there have been more repairs than expected.
The homeless shelter and number of intoxicated people in my neighborhood is concerning. I never
worried about my safety before.
The limitations on a very small HOA that has little time or sources to pursue common problems.
The percentage of maximum appreciation went from 4.5% max to 3.5% max
The potential for HOA costs to increase significantly, even though I understand the prudence in the
increase.
The quality of the materials in the home should be better if the city is going to limit when they will be
replaced
The rest at which HOA fees would grow
The restrictions around renovations
The rise of HOA fees by a 1/4 with more increases likely as well as the lack of soundproofing and the poor
construction/finishing such as carpets (literally nails/tacks sticking out which the builders would not
address), cabinets, etc. and we are intensely careful with our home and very “type A” in terms of
cleanliness and care.
The time period in which one could change something about the home and receive potential earnings
back. For example, the kitchen and ground floor are the most highly trafficked and used space, yet if you
need to replace the flooring, you have to wait 10 years in main floor and 20 years in the kitchen. It seems
in order to cost save, everything is low quality and therefore breaks down very fast. We have to wait years
to replace what is falling apart if we’d like to see any of that additional funds added on to the value of the
home.
The upstairs bedrooms were not wired for ceiling lights/fans
The ventilation does not work at all
The windows were under warranty with previous owner. The inspection noted problems with the
windows. This would have been the ideal time for window replacement before change in ownership.
The workmanship on the building and the construction flaws
There was a change to the amount of equity we could earn each year that homeowners could opt into. I
didn't feel well-informed on this decision and we didn't opt in. Now I wish we could have been encouraged
to do so. I wish we had another opportunity for this since I don’t think a letter provided enough
information for this important decision.
Too many to list
Too much light at night from businesses
traffic noise on the street and speeding
unwarrantable nature of the Steel Yards
Upgrades to water heater, furnace costs (very hard to recoup costs)
Utilities have doubled from when I lived in Lafayette and HOA went up- water bill has doubled 8 use the
same amt. of water
Warranty and things to look for earlier.
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Surprises as a Homeowner
What the capital improvement restrictions would mean for a very old home that was in terrible shape.
That remodeling would be considered upkeep and maintenance. I wish I had had a much better
understanding of how slowly the home would appreciate.
While I am grateful for our low mortgage & the affordability of the house itself, I wish I would have had
more understanding that because this home is slotted to remain very affordable, no improvements will
increase the value. While we knew it wouldn't be a big money making investment, we didn't realize that it
would feel like going backwards b/c it needs so many repairs/improvements at this point
While the house was under warranty, the warranty basically didn't cover anything. All the issues we've had
with the house were not covered by warranty. I would have wanted to know more about my rights under
the warranty and who was responsible for what.
Windows are bad/noise level awful
Wish we were aware of the road getting put in next to our home, super concerned about the safety of this
- 90 degree turn next to our fence and daughter's playhouse, high speed limit and people already speeding
down it, even with it being a closed road! Also wish we were aware of the neighborhood issues - seems to
be a high turnover two doors down with shady characters living there (one seen panhandling on the
corner). .
With regards to the HOA, it might have been good to know exactly how under-funded they are. But I
probably would have bought anyway...?
Where do the employed persons in your household work? (Other)
Employment Location
All of Boulder County
All over
All over
As previously indicated, I was laid off three weeks after I moved in. I am working part time as a yoga
instructor but currently do not have a full time job and I am actively pursuing one!
Aurora
Commute all over
did work in Boulder, will be working in Thornton beginning April 1, 2019
Disable vetran using GI bill currently than I will get job
Flight attendant. Trevels
Fort Collins
Fort Collins and Loveland
Freelance
Golden
Gunbarrel
I am a photographer and work in Boulder and elsewhere
Loveland
Lyons
Nederland
out of state work place
Split between Boulder/Denver
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey Respondent Comments
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Employment Location
Started in Nederland, transferred to Boulder, then transferred to Greeley.
Was working in city of Boulder but lost job of cancer
Westminster
Work in home
What are the main reasons you plan to move or might move? I want to live in a nicer
home, (please identify what would be nicer):
Move to a Nicer Home
A 2 BR house
A place with more windows (I only have windows on the front of the home so the rest of the home is very
dark and dreary, especially given how it was constructed), no shared walls and better finishes as well as a
3rd bedroom so we can host guests/have a place for my aging parents, etc.
A yard- small one
Ample closet and storage. A place to keep my bike inside. Outdoor space like a porch, small yard, or
balcony.
at least a nice/private patio or varanda. more storage space
Backyard, more storage, more opportunity for capital improvements
Basement/backyard
better constructed - this place was constructed with very cheap materials & corners cut - I would buy
something more aesthetically pleasing and with fewer maintenance and repair costs
better finishes
better layout, bigger kitchen, a yard
Better sound proofing, overall quality of complex is fair
Both layout and more space
Enough space to have my office in the home
Finished basement, nicer finishes
Have a yard and less traffic noise
Higher quality building materials would make a world of difference
I wish I had a little extra room
I'd like more space (1 more bed) and a/c, but could not afford it
In better condition and surrounded by other homes in better condition
Less noise, more private, yard
less stairs, stop hearing my neighbors thru my walls, garage, more storage, built properly home, not
subjected to negligent & corrupt HOAs & their property mgmt, no more builder-grade or even poorer
quality than builder grade anything, outdoor space, get more home appreciation, less City prgm
restrictions, 3-bdrm instead of 2-bdrm, better mortg rates, better constructed home
Light, yard for kid :)
Location to trails; better for having friends over (for kids too)
More soundproof
More storage- a heated unit not in crawl space with dirt floor and not accessible by closet foor with
detached ladder
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Move to a Nicer Home
Natural light! Sound proofing, storage (garage), nice finishes
nicer finish, yard, quiet
Not as cheaply made, no HOA, quieter
Single family home; less neighbor noise
Sound proofing, less HOA costs
Space, yard, garage
Storage, garage, bedrooms
The HOA does a terrible job of upkeep
Updated kitchen, bathrooms, new carpt
Would like a garden
Would love to have gas range and slightly nicer finishes.
What are the main reasons you plan to move or might move? I want to live in a
different city/area, (location):
Move to a Different City/Area
Arvada, Wheatridge, Denver, Broomfield, maybe Longmont
Buena Vista, CO
Denver
Denver
Denver
France to be near my daughter as I get older and more frail
I don't know, but I can't afford to continue living in Boulder.
I would like to live in a city with more racial, economic, and cultural diversity and affordability.
Lafayette
Less expensive area, like the Southeast
Longmont
Lyons
Maybe New Mexico or Idaho. I really want to have my own small farm one day and I don't think I can
afford to do that in Boulder Valley. At the very least I would like a house with a big yard and right now
there is just a shared side yard at my place but I asked the HOA about putting in a garden and it got really
complicated so I stopped pursuing that and just started gardens at a couple friends houses.
Midwest
New York City or Denver
Not sure- just might want a change
Out of population boom
Out of state to be near family
Outside Boulder, maybe CO, where it is less expensive
Planning to relocate to Steamboat Springs. Cannot handle the noise and traffic anymore. Want fewer
constant maintenance costs in retirement.
Ridgway, CO
somewhere cheaper and green, maybe Bloomington Indiana?
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Move to a Different City/Area
Somewhere warmer in winter
Somewhere with less congestion, better air quality
Somewhere with less entitled jerks
Up in the mountains a little
Where there are less students.
wherever my job takes me
Wyoming
What are the main reasons you plan to move or might move? (Other)
Reasons for a Move (Other)
Boulder feels like a plutocracy to me. The nearest restaurant to me the price of dinner is $80. Boulder
needs to put more effort into getting and retaining a critical mass of low and middle income residents
But currently am unable to even consider purchasing a different home in Boulder
Can't afford to move because we have almost no equity (1%) in our condo. You should allow 6% so we can
afford to move someday.
Change in employment, new prospects
Cost of HOA!!!
Death
Depends on health and aging, may move closer to my son and his family
Employment reasons
Health concerns living on 2nd floor with exterior stairs
HOA costs too high
I am 70+ want to move to a Boulder affordable senior housing
I have had an injury which leaves me susceptible to further injury, in the intense Radio Frequency Radiation
of this city.
I love my home but may not have a choice - if I can no longer afford the monthly HOA fee, I will have to
move. I worry about being able to sell as no one who qualifies for affordable housing could afford this
monthly fee, and I'm not able to rent, so I don't know what will happen.
I need to escape the financial mess this housing program and poorly governed/managed community has
put me in.
I would like a garage
I would like a yard/land
I would like more storage, perhaps a garage or basement
If age/disability should keep me from living on my own
If job took me elsewhere, but most likely not
If must move, likely to less expensive town/state
If we have another child.
Layout is awkward; NOISE within building and outside is a misery
Live in a 2 bedroom condo. Now have 2 kids and a dog so need another bedroom and would like a yard.
Live in a house with a yard.
More control over how my money is spent
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Reasons for a Move (Other)
More room with kids
My son is 6 now, but he will eventually need his own room. But we have been very happy in our current
home.
NO HOA!
No logical reason, just change, maybe new city
No plans as such
The HOA and it's multiple issues with the board, etc.
Want a home with a different layout and just a bit of outside space
Would like a home with a garage
Would only move to co-op farm - highly unlikely
Yard
(If you have had lump sum special assessments in the time you have owned your
home) Please indicate the approximate year(s) and amount(s) for your unit, and what
the assessment was for, if you recall:
Lump Sum Assessments
250
281
3000
$1400-2018 $2500-2018-2019
$997.00 for painting the exterior of the condo in 2018
%200-$300 property update.(paving)
~6-7k over the past 6 years
2010 - $8000 (i think...)
2017- $872 new stairs; 2019-2019- $4045 new roofs
2017-$881 2018-$1470 2019- $2616.74
2017, 2018, 2019 $9500- roofs (flat and pitched); staircases
2018 for $500 new window box
2018- stair repair $1400; 2018/19 rood repais $4000 - can barely afford and no warning
2018, $1200, roofing renovation
2018: $1800 - new staircase 2019: $3500 - roof repairs
2019 - $1844 201? - ?
2019 - $230 - fixing an imbalance from 2018
3 assessments in 2017-19 so far, totaling $7300 for my unit. All for major emergency repairs that could
have been mitigated or delayed if the property manager had done preventative maintenance. Exterior
stairwell replacement, peaked & flat roof replacements. Judging by reserve study, building condition,
financials and continued lack of maintenance, more major assessments are extremely likely. Especially for
replacement of stucco, decks and covered stairways, railings and mitigating water damage & mold from
through-the-wall air conditioner cutouts.
30 years of mortgage and 2200000 the amount. And I don't remember the assessment.
At least twice >$2,000 each time, once currently
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Lump Sum Assessments
But perhaps will occur if roof replacements are more expensive than reserve
Can't recall the date, but maybe about 2008? Due to developer setting orignal HOA fees artificially low so
that we had unreasonably low reserves
Change the blinds
Don't remember even the one that is due now which will be my second assessment
Early 2000's, for maintenance, about $150 (more than once)
Edifice repairs and hardware replacement for HVAC system upwards of 5000
However, I got a letter saying that the monthly HOA cost would increase by 11.71% = $24 = $229. This is
not good for me nor do I see HOA doing that great of job. Snow removal sucks, landscape is trash, dump is
a mess
I cannot recall
I think so- water leak/catching up on mispayment from other HOA
In past 5 years, there was increase from $17 to $245
It was actually right before I purchased in 2015. Don't know the specific amount for my unit, but it was
$120,000 to re-do the roof (7 year loan).
Jan 2019 for expenses from last year for landscaping, security, and insurance ~350$70
multiple years, for different amounts, including one over $4,000
No, but the HOA fees increase consistently every year and significantly. It's a terrible HOA.
Repair of balcony
Some small ones, but HOA fees have increased significantly! Fore pretty poor service too- little shoveling,
pest management, or them enforcing codes
Stairs and Roof - more than 5K
The assessment was for new garage doors.
There was a lawsuit with the builder. Had that not gone our way, residents would have covered an
expensive roof replacement, so I feel like we got lucky to some extent
There wasn't a special assessment, but the H.O.A. had to get a bank loan and our dues were raised
accordingly. 2015/2016 ?
They increased HOA dues instead of special assessment
Three in the past 3 years plus a substantial bump in dues several years ago
Two- a total of $5400
We were fortunate in this complex to catch the problems with original constructor before the owner's
liability. Took him to court and won the funds necessary for major improvements
Which best describes your race? (Other)
Race (Other)
Anglo Pakistan
European American
Human
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Do you have any other comments or suggestions?
Comments/Suggestions
Affordable housing is a wonderful program that helps lots of people to have a better living situation. I am
so thankful for the City of Boulder!
Affordable housing is the ONLY way I would be able to live in the City of Boulder. Unfortunately we've
spent a lot of money on the house even though it was new when we moved in. The poor quality of how it
was built is really unacceptable. My neighbors and I have considered filing a class action lawsuit given the
severity of issues - and all of the issues are the same (poor quality of pipes, or pipes not being connected).
All of us had flooding in our basement from the same issue. All of us had to replace our counter tops
because they bowed (within the first year), all of us have heating/cooling issues. I would implore the city
to hire an inspector to ensure that the building material isn't the lowest possible. It really doesn't make for
a long term housing solutions - we can't afford all the upkeep and we have savings that we've had to use in
order to make it work. I thought I'd be adding to my savings and not minimizing it due to the house. I
understand its expensive to built these units but please ensure the developers are hiring good quality folks
to build. Coburn built these units and it's the worst quality in homes I think I've ever seen, it's
embarrassing really.
Affordable housing, in my opinion, should be playing a proactive and active role in oversight of HOA boards
and HOA property management
Again, HOA (Boom Properties) fees are excessive, esp. when you consider the home value/mortgage
payment- it does not seem to be equitable given home/market value owners are paying the same amount
as those in the Affordable Program after income caps. I also think the Affordable Program should do
regular inspection on ALL unuts to ensure owners are following all city codes
Allow affordable homes to be sold at market rate after a certain number of years of owner-occupancy --
maybe 15 years. Give owners some way to be able to afford to purchase a market-rate home in Boulder
after many years of owning an affordable home.
Allowing people to list their home after purchaing a larger (different) home in the program would be ideal.
Feel too risky to list my current place without knowing lottery results for a prospective new home
Am very happy with my affordable home. My only concern is the multi levels, as I get older
As I mentioned above I believe the city needs to think about the current income limits and how they relate
to salaries and the current housing market in Boulder. I would really love to move to a market rate home
but cannot afford it. I don't qualify for middle income either. It makes me want to leave Boulder.
Frustrating.
As with most program with good intention, there must be a way up and out to grow- graduate
at one point, when my family grew and we still qualified for affordable housing, the city did not allow us to
move into another affordable home because of the rules of selling your home before buying another one.
we would have had to sell our home, move into an apartment and hope that one day we were picked to
move into another home- which was to risky. so our family of 6 now lives in a 1500sq ft home. while I love
our home, it would have been great to move into a home slightly bigger than the one we have now.
At thie time I purchased my home, I only made <$50K. Now, I'm married and this purchase has allowed me
to save for a family home
Be more friendly to people with disabilities.
Boulder Affordable is a life line for seniors who have lived and worked in Boulder for years. Sometimes I
think they should be given a preference especially with the rental prices in Boulder and seniors move
towards fixed incomes.
Can the property be inherited? Why can't HOA dues be adjusted for affordability? Mine have gone up
more than 35% in 6 years whereas fixed income had increased 1%- 4 out of 6 years.
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Comments/Suggestions
City should have their own inspection check BEFORE purchase, after contract
Clarify family friendly and accessibility policies. Collect aggregate data on size of families to see if family
friendliness policies are serving small families as well as those with 2+ children.
Classism, gentrification, exclusion, agism, descrimination toward affordable City of Boulder owners by
SOME market price owners. Many owners (market value) HOA own 2-3 other homes around country and
Europe.
Eric from the City of Boulder is an amazing worker. I give kudos to him.
Few complaints about some neighbors, I would suggest the program be more family friendly and more
rules for having a nice community around
Give elderly as much reference as families in buying ffordable to buy resale homes. Work with RTD to
extend and return service to new neighborhoods that serve o longer driving persons and to add shelters to
bus stops.
Grateful for this program and my condo!!
Great program!
Great program! Wish more affluent communities had a similar one. Thank you!
HOA dues are skyrocketing, getting unaffordable. Construction defect has caused water leak damage close
to 1 million to fix. Expect large special assessment. Deneuve Construction is terrible, non responsive to
concerns since day 1. Please do not work with Deneuve any longer.
HOA dues going up without any significant changes to improving landscaping, maintenance, consistent
snow removal, or addressing pet waste left in the front yards of the properties. I am appreciative of
owning my home within the city limits of Boulder!
HOA dues increased so that the unit would no longer be affordable to someone in the original income
bracket for this house
HOA fees are steep with what we receive from them- one reason previous family moved out of the unit
and Boulder proper
I actually really like my condo and the neighborhood where I live. However the H.O.A. situation has been
really bad. I know that Affordable Housing is not responsible for H.O.A.'s, but the high costs defeat the
whole purpose of the idea. I know a lot of people who have H.O.A. dues that are as high or higher than
their mortgage. It is like having two mortgage payments. I have had many times when I wasn't sure if I
would be able to stay in Boulder because of this situation.
I am so grateful for the affordable housing program. I'm not sure I would have been able to purchase my
first home otherwise. I'm grateful to be able to live in the community where I work
I am so happy with my home! I only wish I had a yard and that my house was further from the highway but
otherwise it's perfect!
I am so thankful for this program, it has enabled me to get on track at financial secure and still be abel to
live in the city I walk in. Thank you, God bless
I appreciate the ability to improve one's home for a better resale price. However, after installing a $20,000
solar PV system I was only able to improve my resale price by $3,000. Also, even that amount has been
depreciated by your system, even though solar panels lose only 0.5% per year. That is my only real
complaint.
I appreciate you all and truly love owning my new condo! Thank you for all your hard work.
I believe the program is an extremely necessary one for those who cannot afford to live in the city that
they work in. I would not be able to live here, close to my granchildren, if not for this wonderful and
valuable program. Keep up the great community work!
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Comments/Suggestions
I consider myself incredibly fortunate to live in Boulder, and I am eternally grateful to the city for thinking
about the future this way.
I do not think developers should be able to buy out of the affordable housing program. That defeats the
purpose and lets the greed of Boulder continue.
I don't understand how the increase in appreciation goes up each year. Why wouldn't it be 3% every year?
What happens when I pay off my mortgage? I know a lot of friends in this program and they are
struggling with HOA dues and special assessments. I have friends who have ridiculous HOA dues and they
are in affordable houses with market rate houses in the same HOA. That doesn't seem to be working. My
whole neighborhood is in the same situation. I am lucky that I had time to be on our Board and other
neighbors were willing to step up and help manage our 14 family neighborhood. It's a LOT of work to
maintain a neighborhood on your own, but we had time invested before we moved in so we cared about
our neighbors ahead of time and made it work and continue to make it work. It would be great if boulder
had HOA support for those neighborhoods who are trying to manage themselves. It's hard to figure out
how much to put in reserves, when to get roofing and painting for the whole neighborhood, etc. Also, a
few of us have solar. It would have been nice to allow that to be included in our mortgage so those who
sold and left didn't have to pay their solar separately. One more perk is getting an Ecopass because of a
lot of work from volunteers in the Holiday Neighborhood to keep it going. If you would like to come to one
of our HOA meetings or meet with our board, we would be happy to connect in person.
I don't understand how the program lifts people up, if we aren't able to take advantage of appreciate on
unit
I feel extremely fortunate to have purchased this home
I feel incredibly lucky to live in the same town that I work in and deeply love, which could never have
happened without this program. It has fostered a foundational sense of well being and stability. Thank
you!
I feel our HOA is not woth the price
I have a lot of gratitude for the City of Boulder's affordable housing program. I was priced out of the real
estate market 10 yrs ago and it was my dream to be a homeowner in Boulder. This program made that
dream a reality. I made an investment. I'm earning equity and I'm no dealing with the exorbitant rental
rates!
I have been told that these condo complexes should NOT have passed inspections. Underneath the
building are the cheapest materials used for duct work. But oh well right? It's an affordable home
I have enjoyed living in this condo. I thank the City of Boulder for making affordable homes available to
me. I purchased this condo in 2001
I hope there can be more affordable housing in Boulder for more families.
I just re-read the Boulder Weekly article on Iris Hollow and their special assessments. There was some
discussion of the responsibility of the City to help these homeowners. I can look at it from both sides,
having been our HOA president twice, and attending workshops and getting information online. 1. The
initial and following HOA Boards were negligent in not having appropriate fees to enable a fully funded
reserve fund. 2. The homeowners were responsible for asking about the reserve funding of their HOA
before purchasing their homes, although they probably did not know what a reserve fund was. 3. The
Affordable Housing Education (that I think is required) should give more information about special
assessments and reserve funds, so that purchasers know what questions to ask before the commit to a
purchasing a home. This means they should get specific reserve fund information directly from the HOA
Board, and not just a 'we have plenty of money in the bank' response. If the HOA cannot provide that
information, it is a red flag.
I love Boulder Affordable plan. Thanks for all you do.
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Comments/Suggestions
I love Boulder and have lived here for many years. Markel cut corners and after winning law suit we had
reconstruction for over a year. We received no compensation and had to live through it with plastic over
the windows. My main concern is skyrocketing HOA dues which are nearly half my mortgage. There should
be a sliding scale, esp for seniors. Thank you for doing this survey.
I love Boulder- my new place really saved me. I feel more secure with a house payment versus rent
I love my home
I love my home and am extremely grateful to be able to work in non-profit serving my community. It is
stressful to live in an extremely neglected home that is water damaged due to construction defects and
previous owner's neglect and poor choices. Bathtub installed incorrectly - water intrusion. Roof
underlayment installed incorrectly - water intrusion. Excess flux on copper pipes in crawlspace not cleaned
off - water intrusion. Previous owner damaged all walls, doors, and window blinds. Expensive to repair.
Previous owner failures: (1) to repair kitchen faucet leak - water intrusion; (2) bathroom fixtures are all
damaged or failing; (3) Kitchen cabinets and countertop damaged beyond repair; (4) All appliances are
damaged; (5) Major landscaping problems due to inappropriate planting of trees too large or for lot size. I
am doing the best I can to slowly address all of these issues. But my best efforts are hampered by the
inability to find trustworthy and competent contractors. I think affordable homeowners need major
education about avoiding water intrusion. And help with maintenance projects and maintaining their
homes. There are many people who cannot tolerate living in water damaged homes because they will
become very ill, chemically sensitive, and can become homeless or die. Professional mold 'mitigation' does
not help these folks. Once the biome has been compromised, it can never be safe again. The City needs to
help owners steward City homes so they don't become unsafe for habitation. Thank you.
I love my place so much, THANK YOU!
I love that we have this program in Boulder. As a native, it's the only way I can afford to own my own place.
I might be good to inform people that living in 'permanently affordable' housing does not mean that things
like HOA fees won't go up. People seemed to be surprised that our HOA had to raise fees because of the
increasing cost of services in Boulder. We got comments like 'That's not fair! This is supposed to be
permanently affordable housing!' We had to point out that the alternative would be to wait for the HOA
to have a major expense and then have a special assessment.
I really appreciate this program for always wanted to live/work in Boulder. Grew up in Loveland. Just wish
it was larger (only 1 BR, no storage, and less noisy). I am in the 55+ age group. Thank you!
I strongly feel low income peopel should be able to do some short term (Airbnb) type rentals. It's hard
enough to live in Boulder let alone go on a vacation. Being able to rent would help cover our costs. It's
unfair ther so many restrictions. I understand our units are not to be used as money makers but allowing
us to rent a week ot two a year seems fair and reasonable
I think that the allowed annual appreciation being based on the original purchase price of the unit rather
than the previous end-of-year (eoy) value becomes unfair to the owner over time. In my case, the original
purchase price was $245K. The allowed selling price at the end of 2018, after about 8 years of ownership,
was $286k. If the allowed appreciation was 2% for 2019 (for example), then the formula allows for .02 *
245,000 = $4900. If it were based on the previous years eoy value the appreciation would be .02 * 286,000
= $5720. 4900 / 286,000 = .017 or 1.7%. So, in fact I'm not getting 2% appreciation I'm getting 1.7% for the
year. I view this as unfair and a misrepresentation of the appreciation I should be getting. The longer you
own your unit the more you are penalized. The original purchase price value the annual appreciation is
based on becomes completely irrelevant relative to the current value of the unit.
I think that the city should allow short term rentals (like month to month) to help supplement incomes
because many of the human services jobs pay poorly. You need us to take care of the community. My
daughter is away at college, I don't want to rent her room long term, I want her to be able to come home
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Comments/Suggestions
for her breaks and stay in her own room. Renting for 6 plus months does not allow for this option. The
equity in the homes should be supplemented by taxes on the multimillion dollar homes. The equity earned
in affordable homes barely pays for the maintenance and repairs or replacement of appliances. As the
homes get older, these expense go up. This is a disincentive to invest in the home. It would be nice if you
offered carrots and not so many sticks. $100 credit to replace an appliance is not enough when owners
who buy a 10 year old home, the burden is on that person to replace all the appliances, they get nothing
for it and the next owner gets to enjoy the new appliances. The credit should be based on depreciation.
You buy new appliances and you move in two years you get $500.00 credit on an appliance, you leave in 10
years you get very little. Living in Boulder and working in the Human Services field is very challenging.
Employers are not compensating for the increase in the cost of living and the cost of living in Boulder.
Most people commute, and now I observe, more people are leaving Colorado because they cannot make
ends meet and the beauty is not longer worth the cost. This trend will impact Boulder when you can't get
employees to staff your hospital or your schools. We need other income options! Being able to rend a
room however we want would be very helpful.
I think the grace period for renting the home should be 2 years. This provides more flexibility to sort out
life, and still doesn't contribute to a systemic abuse of the affordable program. It takes people more than a
year to know whether or not they like their new job enough to catalyze a chain of changes that can't be
reversed.
I very much appreciate Boulder's Affordable Housing Program. I'd never have been able to purchase a
home in Boulder without it
I was recently notified that I could not continue using my downstairs bedroom with bathroom as an Airbnb
rental. I made $3000 last year, I only rented to females. Very safe. This is hardship for a person who is 70
and still working and still owing $160,000 on mortgage.
I was very happy with the services and response I rec'd from the City of Boulder Affordable Home program.
With the exception that I was given wrong information about whether my current home would be
available to me to buy as a single person, everyone was well informed. (We found out the person who told
us that was new to the program, and didn't know about the special case). I am so grateful for the program!
My one suggestion is to HOUND INTO PEOPLE'S HEAD when they sign up that they should also
IMMEDIATELY sign up for the PIE grant too. I wish I had done that when I started looking for houses
because then the grant could have been put toward my downpayment, closing fees, etc. But as it is now, it
worked out fine. Thanks so very very much!
I wish it is easier to shift in bigger space house or once we pay off the mortgage it can be ours and not
permanently affordable. So that our house value will be good later in future. or once you pay off your loan
the house is out of city of Boulder permanent affordable house program can be owned.
I wish my HOA fee could be reduced, since I'm just 1 resident in a 3 redroom, I use far fewer resources
covered by HOA than neighbors, like water, sewage, etc.
I wish that improvements could be a bit easier/more supported. We desperatly need to replace our
carpets but can't afford to. Also kitchen updates and bathroom updates would be nice prior to 20 years
I wish the city would have done more of a proper inspection when there homes were being built. My place
is not energy efficient, in fact, I believe some areas aren't even insulated. Also, there should be more of an
economic benefit to individuals that stay in their home long term because they financially need to. More
incentives to repair, upgrade or fix up homes.
I wish there was a way to purchase another home in the affordable program without selling your home,
reentering the program and entering the fair selection process again. It definitely discourages from making
a second, third, etc. purchase in the affordable program (like searching for a larger home) if you still qualify
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Comments/Suggestions
to be in the program because it's unrealistic to sell your current home without having another housing
situation lined up.
I wish there were better incentives for home improvements. I think that our contractor cuts some corners.
And, we'll never be able to buy anything else in Boulder, even if we sell after our 30 year mortgage is paid
off
I would have expected more support from the Housing Authority when there was substantial damage to
my unit from my upstairs neighbor not once but three times. He did not have the condo owners insurance
required by the by-laws so I and my insurer bore the entire brunt of the damages. I would have expected
that the Housing Authority would have had more of an investment in protecting what is to a certain extent
their property as well.
I would like to extend our family but we don't have a room to do that and we can't afford to buy anything
bigger in Boulder unless it's affordable-living home and we don't do that because we already have home.
As far as I know, we would have to sell this first and apply again. We cannot risk it like that.
I would love to see Boulder Affordable housing reconsider the income limits to purchase affordable homes
in lieu of varying HOA fees as well as potentially the amount of appreciation allowed (within reason to
maintain the integrity of affordable homes). Further, I'd love to see the program add more stringent
guidelines for builders in relation to finishes and potentially even be at the sale walk-throughs with the
new homeowners to ensure a better understanding of the level of finishes actually provided and/or allow
for some revisiting of the 10/20 year expectations for remodeling in order to get equity.
If I had an opportunity to buy a two-bedroom apartment on a single floor. I certainly would have done
that. It makes sense in terms of aging. Has affordable housing thought about offering assistance to aging
residnece to make safety improvements- shower hand bar, etc.?
If you can require new buildings to include a/c if they do for all non-affordable units, that would be great.
I'm grateful for the opportunity. Thank you
I'm grateful to and for your program and to have been able to afford my beautiful townhome. Love my
home, love Boulder, love the Boulder consciousness for understanding we need affordable housing. Just
wish the HOA's could get it together and stop raising the fees every year and giving fewer services.
Welcome to inflation and reserves.
I'm hoping the city can educate potential homeowners on how HOA fees can affect the affordability of
units. Additionally, our community has so many issues due to construction flaws that are affecting our
Affordable housing owners. I hope the city can help near some of this burden as the community is mixed
and forcing affordable homeowners out of the program and out of the city. I can not and have not
recommended this program to anyone who asks and has considered buying into this program. Also
because of the income restrictions, I no longer qualify for the program, despite the fact that I work 3 jobs
to afford my current place and am over the limit by approx $1000. Can the limits be raised? There is no
way that I can afford a market rate unit with my extra $1000 in income. Finally, the lack of inventory needs
to be addressed. I am a single male looking to move into a larger unit and start a family soon, however
because of the lack of multi bedroom units and the restrictions on those, it doesn't seem possible in this
city.
I'm very grateful for the affordable housing program, but sometimes worry that even though I'm able to
save a good amount of money living here, that the prices of home in Boulder will continue to outpace my
income as a teacher in Boulder. Thanks for asking for feedback
Install affordable housing management as a local, not for profit org where each household would be given
a monthly statement denoting useage of elec, gas, water, and sewer and a list of forseeable exp expected
by the community. Such transparency would imbue owners with a sense of responsibility and a state in
lowering consumption.
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Comments/Suggestions
Institute some HOA rules and regs. Many affordable homeowners that I know are being taken advantage
of
Is it possible to provide some kind of follow up/ supervision/ education/accountability for HOA's ?
It has been incredible to have this home and we would love to be able to move and let another fmaily have
this home eventually but the incentives to keep these homes up and update them is not there due to the
limited appreciation. They are really starting to show their age and I do worry I would not have enough
funds for major HOA funds
It seems like the calculation of appreciation should be calculated such that the percentage is based on the
previous year's value not the sale price from many years back. The lack of compounding interest makes it
difficut to increase capital enough to be able to move out with a down payment big enough to stay in
Boulder
It would be helpful if there was more incentive to do upkeep on the home. At this time, only a few updates
are reimbursable. Some of the materials used in the home were very inexpensive and need to be replaced
rather soon into owning the home. I'd like to see some allowance for general upkeep in addition to the
percentage allocated for home sale. Additionally, builders should be asked to use better materials for
permanently affordable homes.
It would be helpful to have a list of reputable handymen/women form the Affordable Housing Program - all
think Boulder owners are rich and gouge or scam you. Also would be good to have better neighbors: I have
1 that has SEVEN cars (3 or 4 of which don't run) and we have limited parking. His son lives part time in a
van in the driveway
It's not really affordable if the HOA is more than the mortgage. We are having major issues with water
damage and the stucco resulting in multiple problems. There has been little or no proactive maintenance
for many years so there are bigger issues to fix. They were unable to go back to the builders with the issues
because they were out of state.
Love my home/HOA is the only thing wish I could put the brakes on
Make a limit on how much HOA fee,s can go up for affoedable homeowner.
Make considerations for adjustable appreciation if a person is in the home for over 10 years. Many of the
properties get sold over and over raising the price of the affordable unit but those of us who keep it
without all of the added selling costs get no incentive.
More affordable housing. Easier path to purchase of another Affordable home, ie: giving current
Affordable home owners some priority in moving to another affordable home they qualify for without
having to go through the whole process.
More opportunity for capital improvements also the replacement for defective single pane windows
should be less than 20 years. I think it would also be worth to look into replacing carpet with laminate
flooring. We live in affordable housing for a reason and hardwood floor is not as durable as laminate.
Should be some incentive/partial reimbursement for replacing 10+ yr old carpet.
My 23 year old son has mental illness and is unable to work. He sometimes comes and stays with me.
My lift is a lot less stressful since buying the condo, I can afford to take care of myself
My primary complaint has been the patio, low-grade concrete was used and it began chipping almonst
immediately
Need more multi-room middle income opportunities so families can stay in town. Even with improved
financial security made possible by the program, it is desappointing to be forced to leave town as we
require more space
No
No
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Comments/Suggestions
No
No, thank you for the opportunity to live in Boulder
On question about utilities, trash and water are included in HOA and electricity and gas are individual. At
the moment, HOA is trying to get water to be billed individually too but it requires a change in the HOA
covenant and it's very hard to get anything changed in the covenant with the current rules. In general, the
HOA covenants are really hard to work with and hard to adapt to the community needs. The main issue is
that the required participation rate of 67% for a vote on a change in the covenant is never attained... It
would be nice for the city of Boulder to provide more training opportunities for HOA board members.
Once you are in the program I believe you are unlikely to leave the program. You become financially
trapped- income never catches up with housing prices
Our children are really bright. Living in Boulder, (which was only an option through affordable housing)
gave them an advantage in terms of an excellent education that prepared them for college. Both our boys
got scholarships to excellent universities which is a source of joy and pride for our family
Our household is 1 white 4 Latino/Hispanic. I think greater emphasis should be placed on diversity in
selecting homeowners as the affordable housing community I live in is almost all white.
Our lives have significantly improved with our home purchase. We are more secure, can work on building
assets for retirement or emergency, our kids have more space, and we are overall less stressed than when
we were renting.
Overall it has been a very nice place. Problems with homeless, sleeping and hiding in our bushes, liquor
bottles and trash, crushing pills under our steps, stolen bike, stolen baby trailer, cars brokien into, etc.
Overall the affordable housing program has been a great benefit. It is unlikely I could have afforded a home
in Boulder county otherwise. I have been able to commute to work and live in the same city, often using
alternative transportation. Thank You!
Overall, it seems like the max income levels are far too low. Maybe they make sense based soley on home
cost, but once you factor in HOA- it's not enough to cover monthly payments. Also, would be great to have
the HOA verified, mine was advertised way lower than actual costs. There are so many policies/rules with
the the city, but nothing for HOA's. Not all of units are affordable homes.
Ownership is the source of dignity. HOA issues are challenging in a mixed-deed setting. Getting that better
papered is key to middle income in mixed-deed community
Parking is a huge issue in this community; many of the market-rate condos have 3 bedrooms with 3 extra
cars. Only 1-2 garage spaces per unit, little storage. Units were poorly built, and HOA fees are high to
repair roofs and exterior damages. $527/mo is super high considering we just get landscaping and snow
removal- house has barely been an investment because of it
Parking is such a huge issue in this complex it would have been such a great idea if 3 bedrooms apartments
are alloyed at least 2 parking spots ? Because it's easy guess that at least there would be more than two
people be living in. And at least two cars be home. Just an idea or some kind of parking space for the
owners ?
Please do something about constantly growing HOA fees for sortable housing. Within few years, HOA fees
will be more than my mortgage
Please help regulate the HOA fees. I understand there will be rising costs but with mixed housing
neighborhoods the needs and desires of the single family homes should not weigh on those of us living in
affordable homes
Potential affordable homeowners should be aware of frustration potentai and realistic costs for
maintenance and repairs costs they will need to pay. Flatirons Habitat for Humanity should be investigated
for their corrupt business practices.
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Prevent an HOA increase or have better quality HOA services. I think overall facility is fair. I really
appreciate you guys helping me get in a home, so much better than living in my truck or paying very high
rent. We have an issue with parking- there's a shortage. My gripe is that we have all these parking spaces
and yet the workers from across the street park here.
Recently attended (2/27) CO Legistlative/Habitat for Humanity Conference. I'm not getting the impression
that the state Legistaltion is taking the housing issue seriously. Continiously building multiplexes & highrise
apts is a Band-Aid to the problem, not a concrete solution for families. High rent imposed on college-age
students and seniors is an injustice imposed on people with limited budgets
Since I purchased my condo in 2011, I have had to retire due to a disability. I live on Social Security adn am
thankful every day to be living affordably in an excellent community with great neighbors, good
managements, ADA facilities, nearby shopping and buses and security. Thank you, Affordable Boulder!
You've made possible living in surroundings that are perfect for me. God bless you!
Some of my neighbors have a much higher HOA dues and it's very difficult for them to afford. The master
HOA seems to resent the condo/affordable folks complaints about dues increases as an insult. Quality of
home is not great but this program is amazing and I hope it grows. I have the BEST NEIGHBORS ever!!!
Some of the places I looked at when I was looking, looked like run down rentals. People don't fix them up
because they can't afford to and there is no money in it for them when they sell.
Super pleased with how the Affordable Housing program is run! Edy and Eric did a great job for me.
Prepare folds for potential difficulty of getting a mortgage loan at Steel Yards properties as best you can!
Thank you for allowing updrades with the Capital improvements program, very grateful for this program
and all that if has done for us!
Thank you for makign it possible for my family to own a home in Boulder! Without the C.O.B. Affordable
Homeownership program, there is NO WAY we would be able to afford to own a home in Boulder
Thank you for my life opportunities in this special home! I teach music lessons here privately and play in
local orchestras. Artist and musician salaries cannot compete with other professions, to qualify to live near
where they work, without this support and subsidy. Every day I feel indebted
Thank you for providing affordable housing; it has made a great difference in my quality of life!!! HOA
dues are an issue as they consistently go up every year disproportionate to my income....it started at $136
per month and is now $300 per month; I think that this is a problem for lower income people; most people
in my neighborhood are no doubt at a much higher income level and can even afford to buy units as
'investments' so that their college students can live there while attending college (which has caused noise
and parking problems in my neighborhood...)
Thank you for running the Permanently Affordable Housing program. It has added so much to our way of
life.
Thank you for this great program!
Thank you for this program!
Thank you for this program. I wish we initially purchased a 3 bedroom instead of two but couldn't get a big
enough mortgage. I'll be sad to move if we decide we need to. Will stay as long as we can. Love my
neighbors in our fourblex. You did not ask about sexual orientation and I think that an important stat to
have too. We are a same sex family. I think the only one in our neighborhood.
Thank you for this program.... low-middle income hard working families deserve the same security as
higher income families - this program allows for that to happen, and gives families a chance to get ahead in
life!!! THANK YOU!!!
Thank you for your interest in plans or thoughts of afdbl hsg members
Thank you!
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Comments/Suggestions
Thank you! 15 years ago, I would have never been able to buy my home without Boulder Affordable
Housing.
Thank you---thank you for helping our family stay in Boulder where we are active members of the
community and work in helping professions.
Thanks for the help to make Boulder a nice place for Living.
Thanks so much! I don't know how I would have survived in Boulder without this opportunity. I love my
home and am so appreciative of all of your efforts! Best wishes to you all.
The Affordable Home ownership program is a huge blessing and I am very grateful to be a part of it. Thank
you.
The affordable housing program has too many restrictions yet keeps us vulnerable to market changes.
Market rate HOA fees should have some checks and balances with the City. I had to pay thousands of
dollars for my realtor and several repairs on a home that I did not get support for by the City that I can
NEVER recover. Although overall my home is beautiful, many homeless people live outside about 30 feet
from my home. I wish there was more affordable housing since from what I've read the cost of housing is a
primary reason people are homeless. Its a constant reminder that this city is designed for the super-
wealthy and I am part of this underclass. Aside from buying a burrito, I cannot shop anywhere on main
street (Pearl) in my home town since its not designed for people with lower or moderate incomes. I've
lived in Boulder for more than 10 years. Although there has bit lip-service to diversity and inclusiveness, I
have not seen any measurable improvement in any of this. The city should have much more affordable
housing to create a community. Or the City should even organize events that would be appealing for
people in the affordable community to not feel so isolated since typically we are in the minority where we
live. A head count tax on employers who make say $1B a year or more (and higher say for $100B-- yes
Boulder has encouraged this, not diversity) is necessary. Otherwise our City is only going to be
represented by the super-wealthy and people that work for the super-wealthy companies.
The Affordable Housing Program is terrific. We love our home, and we love that we were able to get it way
below market value. Working with City staff was a pleasure and you all made it easy to stay on top of all
the paperwork, and were abundantly friendly in our interactions. The issues with our home are minimal in
comparison to the value we received in being able to purchase this home.
The Capital Credit program is outdated and the committee is not open to updating the rules. It is insane
that LVP flooring is not allowed as a capital credit while ceramic tile is, given that LVP flooring in the
number choice of new homeowners, is waterproof, scratch resistant to many things including dogs (even
hardwood isn't!). Additionally, the Asset Program Manager was rude, defensive, and closed-minded when I
voiced concerns about the flooring credit rules being outdated.
The city needs to seriously look at the dangers of Microwave radiation from 'smart' utility (electricity and
gas) meters as probably detrimental to human health.
The city really needs to enforce the policies of affordable housing. It shouldn't be taken for granted and the
city, HOA, and police need to work together to not give up on house owners that take this program for
granted!
The developer definitely put in cheap windows that although double paned don't seem to be energy
efficient as I can feel the cold air come through them.
The drip system for the plants was very bad when this condo was new, but thanks to my complaining it is
getting better, as of last Fall 2018. A carport would be nice.
The HOA is a disaster and has always been non-harmonious. I HATE IT! We cannot afford a manager. Do
not trust some of the volunteers. Believe $ has been misappropriated into personal hands and cannot do a
thing. I HATE it!
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey Respondent Comments
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Comments/Suggestions
The homeownership program is wonderful. I'm so thankful. My only concern is the HOA dues- mixing lower
income with higher income in the same neighborhood seems to bring lots of issues. I'm sure you've heard
the pool issue in Dakota Ridge. I wish some of the dues could be separate from the rest of the
neighborhood.
The permanently affordable housing program can be a double-edged sword. While it's great to be able to
afford to live in a nice but expensive area, the fact that my home's value doesn't keep pace with market
rates makes it impossible to break out of permanently affordable homeownership. I won't be able to sell
my home for a high enough amount that I could afford to buy into a market rate property. This is not
necessarily a problem but it does limit my options. Not sure what the solution to this would be. In addition
I've heard that ever increasing monthly HOA assessments as well as special assessments have hit some
permanently affordable homeowners very hard. This has not been a problem for me but is a big one for
others. It's been so long since my initial orientation that I don't remember how thoroughly this was
covered. Either way it would be good to make sure that anyone buying into a home under the jurisdiction
of an HOA be adequately informed about this. Coverage for loss assessment can be obtained through most
homeowners policies for a minimal amount. Not sure how practical it would be for the city to provide
assistance to anyone facing unaffordable assessments but it would be good to look into the possibility.
Overall I think the permanently affordable housing program is a good one but if I think of anything that
might improve or enhance it I'll let you know.
The resale restrictions are so tight that they trap people in their units. Like many cities, allow those who
have lived in their unit for more than 20 yrs to have the resale restrictions to disappear. Allow people to
buy out of the program- whatever the city's contribution was, the person can pay 20%/yr interest on that
to buy out. The city's contribution is defined as assessed value vs price paid
There is not incentive for homeowner to invest in home, i.e. 20 years end of life: roof, furnace, windows,
appliances...but no $ benefit to make back $, so the previous owner did not maintain. Need to evaluate
program, so this burden does not get passed to one buyer
There needs to be a program to financially grant homeowners with assistance to maintain their houses in
the program over 50 years old. We can't afford to move, but can't afford new windows, we have a child
with disabilities. We are in debt for a loan on the basement, that cannot be recovered in capital gain of
$25
There should be a track for people who want to move or transition into market rate housing - I would no
longer qualify for other affordable housing and do not have enough equity in my home (despite paying
down my mortgage significantly over the years) since the value has not risen at even close to market rate,
nor do I have enough income to move. I'm now trapped in a place that I hate and is wasting my money.
There should be some allowance, at least, for people who want to move to other, equal or better,
affordable housing, which would not diminish the stock of housing and would give people hope for other
options.
This city seems unwilling or unable to put in the intensive work that is needed to ensure that the
properties in the program are indeed permanently (not just initially) affordable. this program is probably
beyond fixing, and is likely to create more hardship around housing costs and Boulder, not less. I
recommend that the city devise a plan for sunsetting the program and transitioning properties out of it.
Just give up. It's not working, and the city seems very unlikely to do what needs to be done to make it
functional.
This has been a wonderful opportunity for me! Thank you!!
This is a great program. The HOAs have been the most challenging, between cost raises, their finances
getting in the way of getting accepted for a mortgage, want to paint the building and increase fees, even
though it's not needed, but eveything else is great.
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey Respondent Comments
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Comments/Suggestions
This program has made me feel more financially secure. It was like winning a small lottery.
This program was the best thing that could've happened to my family. As a divorced women who has
always lived and worked in Boulder as a social worker, it allowed me and my kids to stay within the city
limits, go to the same schools and keep our social circles intact. I cannot thank you all enough. I've felt safe
and supported by this community and my family has been able to thrive because of this program.
This survey is very good. Thanks for caring for us.
To expand on one response: I've worked at the same company for 18 years now, and until last year the
office was located in Boulder. When the rent on the office space increased significantly, we were forced to
move out of town.
Tying the value of the house to average salaries in Boulder is problematic. Many people here are wealthy
because of inheritence or single business sales. This isn't reflected in their annual salaries because they
don't have to work. I paid 2/3 of market rate for my house. If someone bought my house today, they'd
probably pay 1/3 of market rate. That doesn't feel equitable to me.
Unfortunately, my neighbor's HOA was terrible when we porchased our home. The builder was charging
not enough money for HOA fees and overcharged for price of home. Since then, our HOA fees have
significantly gone up and I fear that our home is in danger of not qualifying future buyers in the affordable
program becuase of the HOA fees combined with price of home
We absolutely could not live in Boulder, or the surrounding area if it were not for this program. We have
been able to not worry about our bills as much and move forward in our lives. We have good jobs now and
I honestly don't know how anyone can live in Boulder on our salaries without some help. We are very
thankful to the Affordable housing program.
We appreciate being able to rent out our unit once every 7 years.
We are so grateful for this program, and these particular houses, and would not be able to live in Boulder
County at all without it! However, in my opinion, now that they are 25 years old and in need of a facelift as
well as many repairs, I think you should re-evaluate and make it worthwhile for cottage owners to keep
their homes in better condition. Need better storage options and yard space
We are so thankful this program exsists. We never would have been able to own a home in Boulder where
we work and where our children attend school
We are thrilled this program exists but the HOA fees make it almost market rate. But we feel very
fortunate to be in Boulder. Wish there was more incentives to improve your home without having to pay
all the costs before 10, 20 years.
We are VERY SATISFIED with our home!
We can't say enough about this program, and we hope it is expanded to help many many more people as it
has done for us. Thank you so much!
We've loved living in Boulder. We are natives and are thankful we can afford to stay here due to the
affordable housing program.
When I purchased my home in December 2014, my HOA fee was $300. That was on the high end of what I
could afford but I also could not find any affordable homes without HOA fees of at least $200, and most
were $250 or more. I asked about this and was told the HOA was very healthy and unlikely to rise more
than a few percent each year. Now, just over 4 years later, my HOA fee is $426. That is a 42% increase in
just 4 years. I have a decent job, but I only get a 'cost of living' raise every year, which is about 1.7%.
Sooner or later, I won't be able to afford my HOA payments. When that happens, I worry I won't be able to
sell, as I can't imagine who could qualify for low income housing but yet afford these monthly payments.
I'm not allowed to rent, so my only option would be to default on my HOA payment. I read a report from
the Affordable Housing Task Force written in 2010 identifying this issue and proposing solutions, none of
which have been implemented or even any progress made at all that I'm aware of, nearly 10 years later.
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey Respondent Comments
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Comments/Suggestions
The only help the City of Boulder program is willing to give is 'Get involved with your HOA and vote on your
budgets'. Well, affordable units represent ~10% of our total homeowners at my condo, so we collectively
have no voting power - and anyone who could afford these condos at the market rate is simply not living
with the same financial constraints as the affordable owners are. My concerns have fallen on deaf ears, the
response is a dismissive 'no one likes when rates go up but we all have to deal with it', meanwhile my HOA
has a social committee throwing wine-tasting parties, completely unconcerned with costs. I love my home
and am proud of my city and our commitment to affordable housing, but this issue is making my affordable
home UNaffordable, and I'm afraid I'll lose my home and be priced out of Boulder entirely. PLEASE take
action! You've been aware of this problem for a decade or more!! We need your help!
Where can I get information on how HOA works/or is it ok for a neighbor to have cameras everywhere
pointing at all neighbors and having his car alarm sound everytime someone is outside? Wouldn't that be a
privacy concern with the camera?
While I appreciate that the program is not designed as a way to purchase investment property, the rules
are so restrictive that it becomes virtually impossible to have a life change and maintain one's status as a
homeowner within the program. Avenues that would help lower income folks gain a little extra leg up
(such as Airbnb or renting the home for more than one year) are not allowed, while the continually more
wealthy population of Boulder is allowed to put extra money in their pockets with such ventures. There
must be a way to find a middle ground for affordable homeowners.
While I wouldn't want to do this on a regular basis, I wish there was an opportunity to do a short-term
rental (1-2 weeks) once or twice a year so I could rent my place when I go on vacation to make that a more
affordable possibility.
While I'm grateful for the housing program, there are many opportunities to improve. Further, housing
prices have sky-rocketed to the extent that unless you're a millionaire, single family homes are out-of-
reach for the overwhelming majority, especially those aged 60+. I'd like the housing program to offer
single-level homes that are not condos and not located by the RR tracks, flight paths or other undesirable
areas and not make it so difficult to sell your existing unit and purchase another affordable unit. Address
the issues I previously commented on. I'd like to buy an affordable unit that has 3 bdrms & not be
restricted to just 2 bdrms. Address ever-increasing HOA dues and stop the pushback & excuses! If the City
can buy & run an electric utility, it can do something constructive to keep HOA fees reasonable, otherwise
the program's units will no longer be affordable and the City will then deal w/lots of foreclosures.
While the initial cost of purchase was affordable, ongoing costs are not. This is primarily due to poor design
and shoddy construction- utility and repair costs are outrageous. Quality of life is poor due to noise levels.
However, I feel I am trapped here because I cannot afford to move, having not built up any significant
equity. There should be opportunity to move to market housing.
Wish I'd had choice of a place with no HOA and where I would be responsible for my own lawn etc.
Wish the construction, materials, and appliances were of higher quality. Problems with roofs leaking and
garage leaks. Problems in my unit are ice and moisture inside windows and moisture inside of one closet,
preventing me from using it, so paying for storage space. Cracking outside stucco walls. I've replaced the
stone and hot water heater.
Wish the high increases in HOA fees, it will be difficult to see my home to lower income families according
to how my property will be classified. It would be nice if high HOA was considered with which level of
income can purchase
Would have preferred gardening and space
Would like program to allow for improvements in house that can be at least partially recouped on sale of
house. There are some allowances for this, but would like more latitude with perhaps a lower rate of
reimbursement.
2019 City of Boulder Affordable Homeowner Survey Respondent Comments
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Comments/Suggestions
Would like to have the chance to discuss some issues further. Easier for me to speak than write due to
chronic illness symptoms.
You need to do something about the outrageous HOA fees/assessments for those of us in affordable units.
It's ruining the program