Play sets range from chintzy to elaborate, $400 or more, often depending on the play equipment. The picture on the left is a model found at Home Depot and Lowes for around $1200, check local pricing. Complete with swings, clubhouse (shade is really important in Colorado, so make sure your play structure has some kind of awning, roof or shade maker), climbing wall, climbing rope, ladder, slide, and some come with a sandbox, others will have the space but you have to provide the materials. Other play structures can cost upwards of $29,000 as pictured to the left. Choosing a play set is not as easy as it once was, and there is a lot of fun and bonding that can come from putting one together with your kids. Not only will you cure the “I’m boreds” if you let them help you, but they will see how hard work pays off, and enjoy the equipment much more. As it gets warmer, make it a family event and sleep in the fort area over night. If the family won’t all fit, let the kids sleep out there overnight looking at the stars and watching for airplanes and UFOs. Make sure all exits have a board over them to prevent anyone from falling out in their sleep. There are also several plans online to build your own. Most will come with detailed step-by-step pictures and plans, as well as a supplies list. Perfect for those who want to design and build their own. Depending on the play structure (and investment), it can pay off. If done well, buyers are willing to pay a little extra if it means the structure stays, looks solid for play, and helps them visualize how to use that space.
Schools are starting to wrap up the lessons and before you know it the kiddos are going to be exclaiming, “I’m bored!” There are countless ways to keep them entertained, see my posts for the 365 Things to do in Colorado Springs for some inspiration, but if a park is too far from home to bike or walk to, or makes you feel uncomfortable, consider putting up a play area outside for your children and their friends.
About the Author: Kelly Young, GRI
- Author's website: www.sellmyhomeincoloradosprings.com
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Kelly is an Associate Broker with Red Rock Realty. She has over 12 years experience in Real Estate in the Colorado Springs and Front Range region of Colorado. She represents buyers and sellers of real estate buying homes, land for sale, mountain getaways. Specific areas include: Black Forest, Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, Divide, Falcon, Downtown, Manitou Springs, Monument, Old Colorado City, Westside, Woodmen Hills and Woodland Park. You can reach her at 719-226-0126 or by clicking "email the author" above.
