The #1 hazard of being a realtor in Colorado is getting asked the same question over and over again.

Is living in Colorado really that great?

But my answer is always the same: That depends. Would you enjoy 300 days of sunshine every year? Do mountain views go straight to your soul? Is hiking, biking, rafting, skiing, or snowboarding on your list of hobbies?

(Or are you a curmudgeon?)

Yes, if you plan to take advantage of the many adventures that our state has to offer, Colorado is the stuff of legends. It’s a wonderful place to call home. And I should know—I’ve lived and worked in Greeley since 2006.

One of the best things about putting down roots in Northern Colorado is becoming an active member of the community. There are so many ways to connect with both people and nature (see 42 state parks), but it’s the combination of the two that makes magic.

Here in Greeley, homeowners have the unique opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors while maintaining proximity to modern conveniences and civilization. Kelly Farms, a beautiful neighborhood on the Northwest side of the city, is an excellent example.

With easy access to Windsor and Fort Collins, Kelly Farm is known for its mature landscaping and breathtaking homes. There are currently over 500 lots, with houses spanning from the late ‘90s to the present day. It also has a clubhouse, pool, tennis court, and basketball court, which all contribute to a Colorado-active lifestyle.

Another quintessential Greeley neighborhood is Glenmere, which is located in the center of the city. Some of the homes here date back to the early 1900s—but don’t let that scare you. These houses were built to withstand the test of time, and many are now worth upward of $1M.

At the heart of Glenmere is a gorgeous park, boasting a lake and a walking path. If you’re in the market for an established neighborhood with plenty of trees and an Old World feel, this is the place for you. Chalk it up to the ghosts, but Glenmere has the kind of personality that newer subdivisions can’t quite match.

Of course, if your interest in Northern Colorado is more work-related, there are plenty of options for you, too. One of my favorite neighborhoods, conveniently located near Johnstown and Denver, is St. Michael’s. Its construction ranges from patio to single-family homes, and the town square hosts a handful of coffee shops, restaurants, and other small businesses, bookended by elaborate walking paths.

Pro tip: If you’ve been hired or are hoping to be hired at the new UCHealth hospital, this neighborhood may be the perfect spot for you. The hospital is just north of St. Michael’s Town Square.

So, to circle back to our original question, is living in Colorado really that great? That depends on your interests—and your location.

If you love the great outdoors and having easy access to amenities, you’ll enjoy Greeley.

If the Old World is calling to you, you’ll enjoy Greeley.

(And even if you’re a curmudgeon—you’ll probably enjoy those 300 days of Colorado sunshine.)