Moving to Denver soon--Recon trip starts tomorrow: suggestions needed

[jakeandjo]

Many thanks to all who contributed to this thread. I'm home from trip #1 to Denver and while the trip was difficult--knowing I would soon be leaving my beautiful home and my lush, green, low-population environment--it was less so because of your advice. We have friends in Arvada and therefore kept our search to the NW quadrant of Denver. We did plan to see some of the areas to the south west, like Ken Caryl, but we just didn't have time on this trip. I agree with posters who said views are better away from the foothills. We got to see some stunning views from the Arvada/Westminster/Lafayette areas on Saturday--the skies were a bright blue backdrop for the white peaks of the Front Range. We did check out some of the urban neighborhoods, but just couldn't embrace that much 'togetherness'. Of course, most of the newer developments we visited are as crowded as the downtown neighborhoods, at least in terms of lot size. At this point I think we are leaning toward Lafayette, though that could certainly change. I've been chasing down rental leads and striking out, so we may buy after all. Not what I want to do at this point, but it seems like it may be the best option. Again, thanks to everyone for your input.

One more note: aside from the gorgeous weather and the beautiful views, I was blown away by the friendliness of everyone I encountered in Denver. Wait staff, real estate agents, car service drivers, random people in stores and on the street and in elevators...everyone I came across exuded a friendly, warm vibe.