A neighborhood that offers community-centered events, a friendly atmosphere and out-the-door access to recreation and pleasure is one thing. Value and affordability are another. Getting the most house for your money, investing wisely, knowing the home you buy is well built, environmentally friendly and energy efficient. We share those values. And we get that it’s about lifestyle, about giving people what they want in a home, a community and a location.

To that end, we have a tantalizing list of standard features, like quality interior finishes, durable and long-lasting exterior materials, fabulous kitchens, designer tile, hardwood flooring, large kitchen islands, vaulted master suites and gorgeous 5-piece master baths.

Priced from the $400’s, the selection includes Energy Star® ranch and 2-story homes, with open floor plans and stunning 360-degree views. If build-to-suit is what you’re after, there’s riverfront property available on the picturesque St. Vrain, with models priced in the high $400’s.

For more information about Lyons Valley Park, contact Asa Welch at 303-817-4140, or Asa@MarkelHomes.com

Great schools, plenty of sunshine, good jobs in a variety of industries, one of the lowest crime rates in the state and world-class biking, hiking and skiing in the neighboring Rocky Mountains earned Louisville top billing. The community has a special look and feel, blending its rich mining heritage and character with the convenience and beauty of contemporary design and shopping amenities. Money is quick to point out that value—getting more for your money—is a big attraction to homebuyers in Louisville. Prices for comparable property continue to run below those in nearby Boulder.

Markel’s accent on quality meshes perfectly with Louisville’s “best place” kudos. Every residence in North End is built green and Energy Star® rated, which means a durable, longer lasting, energy efficient home. Your family reaps the benefits of lower energy bills, cleaner indoor air and a more comfortable living environment.

We’ve worked hard to earn our reputation for quality and great design, and it shows.

Phase I at North End is about to close, with a limited number of gorgeous semi-custom ranch and two-story homes still available, priced from the $600’s. Or choose from models priced from the $400’s on south facing, corner and open space lots.

We’re excited about the new town homes and duplexes currently under construction, with move-in availability in April 2012. These low maintenance beauties are situated on open space, with well-designed interiors, open floor plans, high-end finishes, abundant natural light and private outdoor living areas.

Our sales center is open daily, 11-5 PM. Stop by and tour the models. We’re available to answer questions and to show you one of the best neighborhoods in the best small town in America. Questions? Call (303-604-9196) or email Michele Steward at Michele@MarkelHomes.com.

Sustainability. Renewability. Greenability… why should you care? Because homes built with green materials are more durable. The quality of a green home is better than its un-green counterpart. Building green is easier on the environment; fewer resources are consumed both in building it and running it. Green homes last longer, which means your investment has more value, long and short term. And speaking of money, your energy bills plummet. You use less water. You and your kids breathe healthier, cleaner indoor air. We install low-E windows insulated with double-paned glass. You enjoy great natural light and a bright interior plus passive solar heat gain in cold weather and limited radiant flow during the hot summer. A superior heating and cooling system, high-performance windows and an efficient furnace all work to create an overall feeling of comfort.

But there’s more to Markel’s Green Mindset than saving money or feeling comfortable. Outdoor living decks and patios create a “green” experience, in tune with nature. Oversized garages with bike and scooter storage and main floor home-office space support your resolution to drive less or work from home. We do our best to offer our homeowners access to Colorado’s stunning natural beauty, thanks to picturesque views and access to open space and trails. And because we believe in developing infill sites, the local coffeehouse, restaurant or public transport is usually a walk or bike ride away.

Green isn’t some bandwagon we jumped on when the topic got hot. We started incorporating green technology into our construction long before “green” acquired the status it enjoys today. Through the years we’ve steadily strengthened our commitment to the environment, to sustainability and to homebuyers opting to live as conscious stewards of the planet. A longtime Energy Star® partner, 100 percent of the homes we build are high-performance homes, which means their green features are independently verified as meeting a strict set of standards required for certification.

Here’s another fact we’re proud of: To date, Markel Homes has built more Energy Star homes in Boulder than any other builder, and we’re gearing up to raise the bar once again. In a few months we’re going another notch greener when we adopt Energy Star’s version 3.0, a set of upgraded energy and building standards launching in the fall.

If you haven’t already, start thinking green. It matters how and where you live. More than an energy-saving dishwasher or a setback thermostat, green is a mindset, a way of life, with benefits for you, your family and your planet. For more information about green building practices at Markel Homes, click Live Green on our home page.

Want specifics? Here’s a sampling of our standard green features:

• House wrap to reduce air and moisture infiltration
• Low VOC paints and cabinetry
• Water-based finishes on all hardwood flooring
• Durable and long-lasting exterior building materials, such as stucco and cement board siding
• Engineered wood products to replace solid lumber
• 2×6 framing and recycled-content, formaldehyde-free blown cellulose insulation
• 92%+ high-efficiency furnaces, and all ductwork joints sealed with low-toxic mastic
• Third-party tested and HERS-rated to meet ENERGY STAR® standards
• Double-paned, insulated, argon-filled and low-E glazed high-performance windows
• ENERGY STAR®-rated appliances and automatic setback thermostats
• WaterSense® certified bath and kitchen faucets, and low-flow showerheads and toilets
• Passive radon mitigation system included, and active radon mitigation ready
• Solar capable and options such as solar PV panels and solar hot water
• Customization choices like strand-woven bamboo flooring, eco-friendly carpet, Indoor airPLUS packages and advanced lighting packages

The neighborhood speaks for itself. Located midway between historic Main Street and the retail conveniences of Hover Road, Yeager Farm puts you within walking distance of schools and parks, and a short drive from medical facilities—all in a neighborhood that’s new, fresh and beautiful.

To keep our prices competitive, we’ve designed two floor plans without basements (although adding one is an option). The 2-story Sagebrush lists for $249,900, and the Snowcap, a ranch, sells for $259,900. Unlike most homes at these price points, both feature high-end finishes, including slab granite countertops, smooth-top electric range, dishwasher and microwave, hardwood flooring and maple cabinetry.

Move up to $299,900, and choose from three “Series II” floor plans. The Linwood II and Sandstone II are three-bedroom, two-bath single-story homes featuring a vaulted great room and vaulted master suite with a five-piece bath and large walk-in closet. The kitchens are equipped with maple cabinetry, slab granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and a convenient island. Durable and handsome oak flooring in the living, dining and kitchen areas gives the home a warm, inviting feel. You’ll love the ease and enjoyment of outdoor living in these homes, with patio access from the great room.

The Redbud II, our third option at $299,900, is a two-story plan featuring large windows that allow great natural light and views to the backyard and patio from the family, dining and kitchen areas. Slab granite, a large center island, stainless steel appliances and maple cabinetry with a full tile backsplash create a beautiful, contemporary kitchen that’s great for entertaining as well as family life. The upper level master includes a five-piece bath and walk-in closet.

For green construction buffs, the list of green features and benefits in these homes is impressive. Third-party certification and HERS ratings from Energy Star® give you the satisfaction of knowing an outside party ensures that these homes meet specific standards for lower energy consumption and green building practices. The standards also ensure a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and promote healthier indoor air quality and standards of comfort. Visit our sales center for a complete listing of specific green practices, equipment and furnishings.

We’re open Saturday and Sunday from 11-6 PM, and by appointment. For more information call 303-589-5752.

On Sunday, March 6th, Northfield Village officially opens, with a $10,000 Grand Opening incentive on market rate single-family homes($600’s), row houses ($400’s) and town homes ($300’s). Festivities start at 1 pm, with tours through our first furnished models. Munch on delicious brownies and cookies from Great Harvest during your walk-thru and register for cash and gift card giveaways.

Every home is designed, green-built and Energy Star® rated for maximum efficiency, durability, beauty and flow, including open floor plans, high-end finishes and gorgeous windows to ensure great natural light. Beautiful town homes ($200’s) and condos ($150’s)—plus incentives—are also available through the City of Boulder Homeownership Program. Qualifying buyers receive a $3,000 incentive on town homes and a $1,000 incentive on condos, with select units featuring stainless, granite and hardwood upgrades. The best news? At these prices, you can own rather than rent. Stop by to see if you qualify. Our sales staff will walk you through the program and help you apply.

Northfield Village is a sister community to popular Northfield Commons. We’ve taken the features residents most appreciate about Commons and recreated them at Village, starting with green technology for energy cost savings and longer lasting, more comfortable homes. Choose from a range of architecture and a variety of home types, styles, floor plans and price points. You’ll love the access to bike routes and trails and the convenience of nearby shops and restaurants.

Join us on Sunday, March 6, from 1-4 PM. See for yourself why the Northfield communities are favorites in popular north Boulder. Questions? Call or email Village Sales Manager Roz Giannasi (303-974-5529 or Roz@NorthfieldVillageBoulder.com) or Commons Sales Manager Kate Lyons (303-442-0309 or Kate@NorthfieldCommonsBoulder.com).

You might say that North End, the inviting new neighborhood in Louisville by Markel Homes, has been 20 years in the making. As the first new community to be built in the city in two decades, North End is presenting a fresh take on classic Colorado living, inspired by Markel’s “newwest” concept.
“newwest living is about style, sustainability and value,” says company founder Michael Markel. “We apply these concepts to each aspect of development to effectively support a healthy, green lifestyle.” After almost four decades of building in Boulder County, Markel Homes has become one of Colorado’s premier homebuilders, bringing a passion for sophisticated design and premium locations that have resulted in some of Boulder County’s most appealing and livable neighborhoods.
LOUISVILLE LOCATION
North End is well situated to take advantage of stunning Front-Range-and-beyond views and quick access to the wide open spaces that we all enjoy. Money Magazine rated the area #1 in its 2009 “Best Places to Live” survey, citing its historic downtown, outdoor amenities and stable economy. Residents are just minutes from restaurants, coffee shops
and shopping on Louisville’s classic main street. Recreation areas include Waneka Lake Park and miles of bike paths bordering open space.
“The homes at North End are constructed with an appreciation for the surrounding Colorado landscape,” says sales manager Michele Steward. “We pay close attention to create open floor plans with comfortable indoor spaces that integrate outdoor living areas,
and maximize the stunning views and natural light.” Markel’s innovative designs combine contemporary details like metal accents, crisp lines and expansive windows, with traditional elements to create highly livable, tasteful and stylish homes. Two-story, ranch and main-floor master plans are available, ranging from 1,763 finished square feet to a generous 2,784 square feet.
NEW MODEL HOME AND FLOOR PLANS
The next building phase at North End is under way, offering the same great floor plans, plus a number of new designs, including ranch and two-story styles, starting in the low $400,000’s. A brand-new floor plan, called the Summit, was recently completed as a new model home. The Summit has a nicely designed layout and tons of curb appeal with attractive, contemporary casement windows that maximize style, natural light and ventilation, while also being highly durable and energy-efficient.
North End has great pricing on two currently available homes, the Summit plan and the popular Flatiron plan, for buyers with a more immediate timeframe. Located at 1345 and 1349 Snowberry Lane, these spacious and open floor plans are south- facing, feature luxurious master suites with walk-in closets and 5-piece baths, fully-fenced and professionally landscaped yards, and include some very nice incentives, such as hardwood floors, granite kitchen countertops, stainless steel appliances, tasteful designer-chosen finishes and upgraded tile selections.
Markel Homes just released three new semi-custom homes, situated on premium lots adjacent to common open space. They offer additional living space, custom upscale details and finishes, larger yards and cul-de-sac locations. Additionally, construction is beginning on a new ranch floor plan, called the Columbine.
“This ranch home is designed for those who are looking for easy, main-level living. The large master suite has vaulted ceilings that are accentuated by upper level windows, which let’s in tons of light. Plus, buyers who enjoy cooking will love the functional and open kitchen with great storage and counter space,” says Steward.
COMMITTED TO GREEN BUILDING
Every Markel home uses green building practices that conserve natural resources, reduce pollution and provide a healthier indoor environment. Each home is tested, certified and HERS- rated to meet ENERGY STAR® standards for lower energy consumption, helping to further reduce green house gas emissions. The result is a home that promotes a comfortable lifestyle, while proving itself as an excellent long-term investment.
“No matter which home plan fits you the best, Markel Homes has built a great reputation on many years of local experience developing beautiful neighborhoods and building quality homes,” Michele Steward explains. “Today’s buyers are really doing their homework, so they can be sure they’re making the right investment decisions. They get that peace of mind with our homes.”
VISIT NORTH END
North End is located off South Boulder Road and 95th Street in Louisville. The sales center, at 2411 Rose Court, is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and 2 to 5 p.m. on Tuesday. To arrange your personal tour, contact Michele Steward, Sales Manager, at 303.604.9196 or by email at Michele@ MarkelHomes.com.
For information about North End or other innovative neighborhoods by Markel Homes, visit www.MarkelHomes.com, www.Facebook.com/MarkelHomes, or call 303.449.8689.

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Distinctive features of this new, successful and growing community are sublime views, trail connections, a neighborhood park, and a pleasing variety of home styles, from traditional and Colorado craftsman to contemporary loft-style.
This appealing mix includes single-family houses, duplexes, row houses, town homes and condominiums at a range of prices – all built by four top-notch Boulder builders known for quality.

Northfield Commons occupies a 22-acre site between Kalmia Avenue and Palo Parkway in northeast Boulder. The semi-rural charm of quiet, tree-lined streets is balanced by the convenience of nearby restaurants, banks, shopping and public transportation.
Every home meets built green and Energy Star® standards for eco-friendly and energy-efficient living, which means lower energy costs, healthier indoor air, less water usage and improved overall comfort, while reducing pollution and conserving natural resources.
Life at Northfield Commons
Megan Forbes moved into a two-story, single-family home with a small fenced-in yard in Northfield Commons in October 2008. She had lived in Boulder for six or seven years. “I was attracted to Northfield Commons by the community environment, the parks and trail system nearby,” she says. “It had more of a community feel, with parks and soccer fields and trails right here in the center of things. And so many people have dogs.” She has two herself – a husky and a mixed breed.
“The outdoors has big appeal,” Forbes says. “I like to bike ride in Left Hand Canyon, and there’s easy access to road riding. A lot of young people, and families with kids, live here. It’s so quick to get to town, the grocery market, 28th Street, and to jump on Foothills Parkway. It seems quiet and secluded here, like a sanctuary, but it’s close to everything. It’s a nice community – people are friendly and nice. We got lucky in moving here!”
Home Sales
“Northfield sales have been very successful this spring and summer, despite the challenging times,” says Sales Manager Kate Lyons. “We have closed on over 25 homes this year. With the first-time homebuyer tax credits, and low-interest rates, we are getting lots of buyers. And being built green and Energy Star rated, our homes shine over older, resale homes. We sold more than 115 homes over the two years we’ve been open; over 65 percent of our homes have been sold, and we have another two years to completion.”
Trails, Parks and Recreation
Four Mile Creek Trail and Wonderland Creek Trail are accessible from the Northfield Commons bike path. Both trails lead to open space. The focal point of the community is a
beautifully landscaped park, with picnic tables and a half basketball court, within walking distance of every resident. Pleasant View Sports Complex borders the eastern edge of Northfield Commons, and North Boulder Recreation Center and Spruce pool are nearby.
Northfield Village Under Way
Since Northfield Commons is thriving, activity has begun at Northfield Village. “This is our up-and-coming community a few miles north of Northfield Commons,” says Lyons. “We’ve written our first four contracts there. We’re featuring the same four builders. More details will be available this fall when we open our sales office at the Village.”
Contact Information

Northfield Commons is marketed by Markel Homes and Accent Properties. The sales office is located in the southwest corner of the neighborhood at Kalmia Avenue and Silverton Street. It is open daily, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call Kate Lyons at 303.442.0309, and visit www.NorthfieldCommonsBoulder.com.
A variety of condominiums at Northfield Commons meet the guidelines for the City of Boulder Homeownership Program. Visit the Northfield Commons Web site for more information.

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Red sandstone cliffs and panoramic views create the perfect Western backdrop. It is a picture-postcard Colorado setting.
Markel Homes of Boulder, known for creating high- quality neighborhoods across the Front Range, has designed single-family homes in ranch and two-story models specifically for Lyons Valley Park, starting in the $300,000s. As in all Markel communities, the homes in Lyons Valley Park are green-built and Energy Star® rated to maximize energy efficiency and promote sustainability.
Lyons Valley Park is a very special neighborhood because of the natural beauty of the Lyons setting and because it is only 20 miles east of Rocky Mountain National Park. Lyons is sometimes called the “Gateway to the Rockies.” The picturesque town offers a first-rate school system, thriving community, and all kinds of recreational opportunities, like hiking, kayaking, river rafting, rock climbing, mountain biking and fly fishing, and great musical events, too.
Life at Lyons Valley Park
Ann and Steve Herrmann moved into their stucco Mesa ranch home in October 2009. “We liked the selection of homes; they’re brand-new and have a lot more light and space,” says Ann Herrmann. “We back on to the pond and have a view of the river. There’s a huge kitchen, natural lighting, neutral colors, hardwood floors. This is a well-built, well-designed house.”
And the house saves them money, too. “Our electric bill is almost one-third to one-half less than our last house, which was less than one-third the size.”
And they like the trails to walk and hike, and really friendly neighbors. “There are a lot of kids. We love having kids around. The kids can play safely outside, unsupervised. They even have lemonade stands, and can explore – as kids used to be able to do.”
One of the main reasons the Herrmanns moved here was for the benefit of their two golden retrievers. “All our neighbors have dogs, too.” They are delighted with the wildlife they see. “We saw three elk in our backyard, and lots of amazing birds.”
And another plus: “It’s an easy commute for me to Boulder,” she says.
Available Homes
Currently, two homes are under construction and available at Lyons Valley Park – the Red Ridge and the Sage floor plans. Each includes sought-after upgrades.
405 Raymond Court - This Red Ridge model, located on a quiet cul-de-sac, is now under construction. Featuring three bedrooms, three baths and a three-car tandem garage, this has been a very popular model. The Rustic exterior finishes are board and batten and 6-inch fiber cement lap with shingle accents. This house exudes charm, from the covered front porch and delightful foyer with open staircase to the covered rear patio. The main level has wood flooring throughout, and the kitchen has granite countertops, stainless appliances, and natural maple cabinets. The three bedrooms are on the second level, including a spacious master suite with a five-piece bath and a walk-in closet. $412,000.
401 Raymond Court - From its name to its color palette, the Sage easily accommodates a Colorado lifestyle. This home is beautifully suited to its natural setting and is tucked between a vast open space, the St. Vrain River and the quaint community of Lyons. The 2,032-square-foot floor plan has ample “flex space” for you to customize the home to your preferences. This model features three bedrooms, three baths and a three-car garage with great finishes, including solid oak flooring on the main level, a kitchen with maple cabinets, granite countertops, stainless appliances and an island, gas fireplace and more. The exterior has stone, shingle, and board and batten finishes, and there is still time to select the exterior color and interior finishes. $433,500.
Visit Lyons Valley Park
As you approach Lyons on Route 36, turn left at the rock and cross the stone bridge into Lyons Valley Park. For more information about Lyons Valley Park, call the sales office at 303.823.6814. The office is open Friday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Tuesday from 12:30 to 6 p.m. For more information about Lyons Valley Park, all floor plans and prices, as well as other neighborhoods built by Markel Homes, visit www.MarkelHomes.com.
Markel Homes
Markel Homes, one of Colorado’s premier homebuilders, plans, develops and builds Colorado neighborhoods that integrate the natural landscape and comfortable lifestyle of the West. Innovative design and distinctive architecture characterize a Markel community, along with quality construction and green practices. Markel is a homegrown Boulder company that has built homes in various locations in Boulder County and in Fort Collins. Visit www.MarkelHomes.com.
View the pdf here: Lyons At Home Final PDF

When Michael Markel, owner and president of Markel Homes Construction Company, first saw the extraordinary property situated along the Foothills in northwest Boulder, he knew it was the perfect site for Dakota Ridge Village.
“It’s so rare to come across a parcel of land in the City of Boulder that’s directly adjacent to open space, with such stunning views,” he says. “As a local developer in business for almost 40 years, I felt I had a unique opportunity to build a distinctive community that would preserve the natural beauty of the site and reflect Coloradans’ tastes and connection to the outdoors.”
Dakota Ridge Village is located in North Boulder, west of Broadway and U.S. 36. Spread out over 57 acres, the community is surrounded on two sides by City of Boulder open space. The popular Foothills Trailway runs along the neighborhood’s south and west sides. Many homes have panoramic views, and everywhere is an open, expansive perspective. Residents enjoy easy access to trails and bike paths as well as city amenities, parks and a congenial neighborhood atmosphere.
Saved the best for last
The last phase of building is currently under way, with lots situated directly across from protected open space and featuring spectacular Foothills and Flatiron views. Included in the final phase are custom solar homes priced from the $800,000s to $1.5 million, from three local builders: Markel Homes, MayerMartini Homes and Murphy Homes.
At Dakota Ridge Village, Markel Homes has built a series of unique single-family homes from Markel’s newwest collection. Inspired by the heritage of the West, newwest living combines favorite traditional elements with the spacious feel of contemporary design and an attitude of urban sophistication.
• 5229 Pierre Street is part of the newwest collection and available now. Priced at $879,900, this home features multiple outdoor spaces, including two large patios and a third-floor skyloft, high-end finishes throughout and large distinctive windows for abundant natural light and expansive views.
• 5334 2nd Street, $1,525,000 from MayerMartini Homes, sits directly across from open space to the west and offers unobstructed views of the Flatirons and the Foothills. Built in a New England style, this home features a Nana-style wall of windows, large screened-in side porch to the southwest, luxurious master suite and gourmet kitchen.
• Murphy Homes is offering 343 Dakota Boulevard, a south- facing home priced at $1,349,000, with an open and airy floor plan, awesome views from the large covered front porch and third floor skyloft, and an inviting stone entry. This beautiful home won Best in Show in the 2009 Tour of Homes.
A vibrant community
Wes Hobson, a Realtor with RE/MAX of Boulder, has lived at Dakota Ridge Village for three years. He’s pleased with how the community has evolved.
“I’m surprised how many families there are,” he says. “Seventy percent of the homeowners have kids in K through 12. At our stop, 18 to 22 kids get on the school bus every morning.”
As the father of an 8-month-old and an 8-year-old, Hobson is delighted with the big new community park that recently opened, with plenty of activities for kids of all ages. As an athlete and outdoorsman, Hobson values the easy access to open space and trails.
“Very thoughtful planning went into this place,” he says. “The alleyway is a great design. You see people come and go, and the kids play there instead of on the street – it’s safer. There are spontaneous ‘happy hours’ in the alleys; it’s a very friendly community.”
When Hobson and his wife were looking for a home, they wanted to live west of Broadway and enjoy great views. They looked at a lot of older housing.

“We picked Dakota Ridge Village because it’s new construction. The floor plans are open and modern. It’s a good value compared to the older properties we saw.”
Businesswoman Roberta Gantz is another contented Dakota Ridge Village homeowner; she moved into her new home in 2006.

“I am more than happy I bought it. I haven’t regretted one day. I work hard and come home and I’m ecstatic about the house they [Markel Homes] built for me.”
The neighborhood is also important to her. “This is a community for people like me – over 50, retired and not retired – and families with one or more children. It’s a real community. People are happy with their homes, their surroundings, and their community. We have nice homeowners’ associations. I love my investment.”
Markel Homes
Markel Homes, one of Colorado’s premier homebuilders, plans, develops and builds Colorado neighborhoods that integrate the natural landscape and comfortable lifestyle of the West. Innovative design and distinctive architecture characterize a Markel community, along with quality construction and green practices. Markel is a homegrown Boulder company that has built homes in various locations in Boulder County and in Fort Collins.

For information about available homes at Dakota Ridge Village, visit MarkelHomes.com or call sales manager Nancy Haney at 303.200.0488.

View pdf here: DRV 05-21-10

For Michael Markel, founder and president of Markel Homes Construction Company of Boulder, finding a perfect location for a new community is more than just luck. He searches for that unique parcel of land with stunning views and wide-open space, where the outdoors is a vital element of people’s daily lives.
One of Colorado’s premier homebuilders, Markel Homes plans, develops and builds neighborhoods that integrate the natural landscape and comfortable lifestyle of the West. Innovative design, superb craftsmanship and distinctive architecture characterize a Markel Homes community, along with quality construction and green- built practices.
Family-owned and operated in Boulder since 1973, Markel Homes reflects the vision of its founder, whose lifelong passion for design has led to the creation of some of Boulder County’s most appealing and livable neighborhoods. All are designed with an appreciation for their surroundings, with multiple outdoor living areas and exciting floor plans that appeal to a wide variety of homeowners. They are almost always close to trails and open space, with gorgeous views, and within walking distance of amenities.
In the 1990s Markel Homes gained prominence in the high-end, semi-custom, single- and multi-family-home niche. As it continues to excel in the creation of signature homes, the focus has expanded to include a concept called newwest living. Inspired by the heritage of the West, newwest living combines favorite traditional elements with the spacious feel of contemporary design and an attitude of urban sophistication. newwest homes, town homes and lofts display compelling exteriors, natural building materials and multiple outdoor living areas. Fluid and open floor plans feature warm, high-style interiors with fine finishes and detailing.
The company started incorporating environmentally conscious building practices years ago. All of Markel’s new homes, regardless of style or type, are built green and Energy-Star® rated to preserve natural resources, lower energy costs and enhance indoor air quality and overall comfort. The homes are healthier for their inhabitants and the earth as a whole.
Under Michael Markel’s direction, Markel Homes has survived the cyclical nature of Colorado’s homebuilding industry to remain a leader in both design and functionality. Further, it has grown to represent honesty and integrity in the building process and top-notch customer service and satisfaction. Savvy homebuyers will continue to become happy, satisfied homeowners in Markel communities.
Living in a Markel Neighborhood
Steve and Sunny Brown are residents of Lyons Valley Park, a Markel Homes community.
“I developed an interest in how Markel built a house, and I formed a very favorable opinion,” Steve Brown says. “I liked the way they build; they take a great deal of care, starting with the foundation. And the houses are built like custom homes, with a wide variety of options.” He noticed, too, that “The house is quiet as can be – we feel comfortable and secure. The systems in the house – like the furnace, for example – are high quality. They’re green houses, and we’ve not had trouble with anything.”
Michelle and Tom Kramer watched the creation of Lyons Valley Park from nearby – the house in Lyons that Tom Kramer had built in 1993. “We were watching the construction, the building process and the interior finishes,” says Michelle Kramer. “We liked what we saw.”
They had been warned that building a house would be stressful. “But Markel made it a wonderful experience,” Kramer says.
The green aspect of the construction also pleased the Kramers. “It gave us more of a reason to choose Markel. We have extra insulation, good windows. It’s efficient; the heating is even throughout – we didn’t have cold spots in the winter. And we noticed a difference in utility costs; our bills here are lower than in our other house, even though this house is twice as big!”
New Markel Communities
Following are six neighborhoods where Markel is actively building now:
Dakota Ridge Village is adjacent to vast open space, with 360-degree views and great trail access just minutes from downtown Boulder. Markel is currently offering custom solar single-family homes starting in the high $700,000s.
Lyons Valley Park is a friendly neighborhood featuring single-family homes bordered by red sandstone cliffs and the St. Vrain River in historic and recreational Lyons. Prices start in the $300,000s.
Yeager Farm is a neighborhood midway between historic Main Street and convenient Hover Road in Longmont, with excellent pricing of single-family homes starting in the high $200,000s.
North End is located near Old Town and open space in top-rated Louisville, with single-family homes starting in the $400,000s.
Northfield Commons and Northfield Village are two neighborhoods located in northeast Boulder, offering a wide variety of home types, styles and price ranges, including single-family homes, duplexes, row houses, town homes and condominiums.
Contact Information
Visit Markel’s Web site – www.MarkelHomes.com – for pricing, floor plans, photos, virtual tours, maps of all locations, current availability, and more about the company and its neighborhoods. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Markel Homes at 303.449.8689.

View the pdf here: General MH 04-30-10