City of Colorado Springs plans to revitalize shopping, a story from KOAA.com, reports that the city of Colorado Springs is focusing on ways to revitalize shopping with the retail enhancement program.  According to Elena Nunez, the Economic Development Manger for the city, the hope is they'll attract more restaurants and stores to make shopping in Colorado Springs a different experience for consumers.  She added, "Our retail sales from restaurants and grocery stores and department stores, is critical for revenue for Colorado Springs."  Nunez said as part of the retail enhancement program the city is hiring two analysts that will gather data about what kind of retail could stimulate three particular areas; downtown, South Academy Boulevard, and North Nevada Avenue.
http://www.koaa.com/aaaa_top_stories/x408979856

A Good Time to Buy a House If You Can Afford One, an article from the Real Estate Journal, reports that as home values slide further downward and interest rates remain at relatively low levels, it may be time to start looking to buy that first house.  If you have a secure job, can afford higher down payments than were required a few years ago and can meet lenders' much stricter income and credit requirements, that is.  One thing to keep in mind as you begin looking for your home is to know what you can afford.  Another important factor is to be familiar with your market.  Location is very important.  According to Patrick Newport, an economist at Global Insight, "Eighty percent to 90% of housing prices can be explained by what's happening in local economies.  Take a hard look at job growth and neighborhood conditions."  Finally, buy for the long haul.  Experts suggest that in a downward market, people should purchase a home only if they intend to live there for seven to 10 years.

http://www.realestatejournal.com/buysell/tactics/20080311-banjo.html

Additional articles that you may find of interest:

USA Basketball considers Springs, 3 other cities
http://www.gazette.com/articles/basketball_34091___article.html/cities_springs.html

Now, job market looks better: Growth rates for area are up
http://www.gazette.com/articles/local_34094___article.html/job_growth.html

Home loan demand drops
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23589495/

Credit Scorers Find New Ways to Judge You
http://www.realestatejournal.com/buysell/mortgages/20080312-kim.html

Turn Your Business Around
http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20080312_businessaround.htm