Published September 3, 2025

9-3-2025 Birthday BLTs, Burnt Crust Perfection, and a Mountain Dream Home

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Written by Victoria Merchant

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Personal Life: A Birthday, a BLT, and a Burnt-Crust Revelation

Last week kicked off with a birthday. Mine. And it turns out, turning a year older feels a whole lot better when there’s bacon involved. Tag and I snuck away for lunch with a few fellow August babies at The Cow, the new restaurant on Main Street in downtown Evergreen. I had the BLT, which hit the spot, but the real treat was spending time with colleagues outside the grind. Yes, we talked a little shop (we’re wired that way), but it was refreshing to hear stories that had nothing to do with comps, contracts, or septic tanks. Having Tag by my side also made it extra fun.

While sitting at our table, I noticed something kind of heartbreaking. The old Baskin-Robbins across the street had closed. If you're local, you probably understand why that matters. Tag grew up in Evergreen and remembers when everyone’s first job was scooping cones behind that counter. We’ve picked up many birthday cakes there over the years for the boys. It’s strange how a shuttered storefront can stir up so much nostalgia. Curious to see what goes in next. Maybe a bakery or local dessert shop to carry on the sugar legacy?


Then came Friday. The Dealership Debacle. I had three recalls on my truck and planned to hunker down at Larry H. Miller Ford in Lakewood, armed with my laptop and work plans. Nine hours later, 2 of the most critical repairs hadn't even been touched. When I asked why, the manager stammered through an excuse, ran off to fix one of them on the spot, and offered zero in the way of a “we messed up” gesture. No loaner, no courtesy car, no "let us make this right." Not even a new air freshener. Just awkward eye contact and a strong sense of do not come back here again. And I still have one other recall issue to deal with. 

Thankfully, Tag’s birthday gift saved the day. I went straight from the dealership to a massage, and I swear I floated out of there afterward. The weekend picked up from there. On Saturday, Adam held down the fort at an open house while I did a showing. Then we headed into Denver for a full-blown family night: pizza, donuts, a little thrifting, and a Rockies vs Cubs game with friends. It was a close one, and we all had a blast.

Sunday brought a listing photo shoot in Alma, and then it was back home for, you guessed it, pizza. My new birthday present, a pizza oven, has become the most-used appliance in our house. We’re still figuring out the perfect fire combo, but let me tell you, a little char on the crust? That’s flavor. Our current go-to: bacon and Hatch green chiles with shredded mozzarella and my homemade sauce. I may never eat delivery again.

Real Estate Life: 4 Under Contract, 4 More Coming, and One Dreamy New Listing

If real estate had a gear higher than full throttle, I’d be in it. Right now, I’ve got four properties under contract, four more about to launch, and a whole lineup of active listings keeping me on my toes. The pace has been intense in the best kind of way.

The market is still a bit of a head-scratcher. Buyer activity has been up and down like a mountain trail, but I’m hoping the cooler weather and sweet deals out there nudge people into action. Sellers are more willing to negotiate than they were even three months ago, and buyers who are ready can find some incredible opportunities.

And speaking of incredible...

Let’s talk about the listing that’s stealing the show this week:
🏔️ 116 Goldfinch Place in Alma
This is one of the most stunning properties I’ve ever represented. Brand new construction, over an acre of land, jaw-dropping views of Montgomery Reservoir and the surrounding peaks, and just 10 miles from Breckenridge. It's modern, luxurious, and still manages to feel warm and welcoming.

🎥 Watch the video tour here
🌲 Full listing details here

This one won’t last long, but it’s more than a home. It’s a lifestyle. If you’re dreaming of a mountain retreat with access to world-class skiing and unbeatable views from every room, this is the one to see.

So here's a question for you:
If the right home landed in your lap today, would you be ready to make a move?
Whether you're looking to sell, buy, or just explore your options, I'm here to help you make the next step with clarity and confidence.

Until next time,
Victoria

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Behind the Scenes, Evergreen Colorado Lifestyle, Family + Business Balance, Life + Real Estate, Motherhood, Personal Development
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