Plans for North Nevada shopping center modernized, an article from The Gazette, reports that according to Springs developer Kevin Kratt, University Village Colorado is getting a makeover before it's been constructed.  Kratt said the new development will be built with more modern features and amenities instead of a traditional suburban design.  The updated design includes varied roof lines to break up the look of the center's smaller, multitenant buildings; sandstone and metal building exteriors accented with stucco; plaza areas for college students and families; free-standing, lighted towers to draw shoppers to the area; a small stage and seating area for concerts; large restaurant patios with unobstructed mountain views; and wider sidewalks to accommodate benches, art and flowers.  Costco Wholesale Club, Lowe's and a Kohl's department store will anchor University Village Colorado.  Kratt said the shopping center's latest timetable calls for completion of the three anchors and most of the smaller, multitenant buildings by September 2009.
http://www.gazette.com/articles/colorado_35377___article.html/nevada_center.html

Vacation and Investment Property Sales Strong Despite Market Troubles, an article from Mortgage News Daily, reports that according to a study released late last month by the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), second-home sales declined with the overall market in 2007, but second home sales still accounted for 33% of all new and existing home sales.  In 2007, 21% of all homes purchased were for investment purposes compared to 22% the year before.  In addition, 12% of the home purchases were vacation homes, down from 14% in 2006.  Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist said lifestyle factors and strong demographics remain positive for the vacation home market.  He said, "Investment considerations are secondary for vacation-home buyers, so there is some dormant underlying demand.  A peak of population is moving through the prime years for buying recreational property.  It is welcoming to see investment sales returning to pre-boom sales activity."
http://www.mortgagenewsdaily.com/4172008_Vacation_Property.asp

Additional articles that you may find of interest:

Utilities buys city land for $1.2M to build fleet center
http://www.gazette.com/articles/city_35402___article.html/utilities_fleet.html

Real estate shows keep their value
http://www.usatoday.com/money/media/2008-04-17-realty-tv_N.htm

Bargain hunters boost home sales in some markets
http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/housing/2008-04-16-bargain-hunting-real-estate_N.htm

Freddie Mac to Unveil Lenders' Pact
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120839080312121351.html?mod=RealEstateMain_1

Selling Your Home In a Market Full of Foreclosures
http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20080418_sellhome.htm