As we look toward the seasonal spring selling and buying season there is optimism that interest rates will start coming down.

In the Metro Denver area, property tax assessments have either hit your mailbox or will be hitting your mailbox any day and the increase of your Property Valuation will take you by surprise.

The new year has started off with inflation numbers coming down and a more stable mortgage and real estate market in the future…

It's no secret, the real estate market has changed in the last few months. However, Colorado has seen extremely high appreciation rates over the last few years and even saw an 8% appreciation rate from January through June of this year. Although interest rates have risen, there are still many wealth-building reasons to invest in real estate whether for your primary residence or for investment (rental) purposes.

No doubt you’re aware that the real estate market is shifting. The days of going under contract the weekend your home goes on the market are over, at least for the foreseeable future.

Homebuyers, sellers, and real estate professionals are paying close attention to interest rates these days. In a changing market like the one we’re in, there are tools that can help buyers purchase a home despite rising rates. Keep in mind that even though rates are higher than we’ve seen for a while, they’re in the mid-single digits, which is still relatively low.

Buyers who haven’t been able to find or purchase a home in this extremely competitive market may finally be getting a break. Although buyer demand is still high in metro Denver, we’re seeing an uptick in inventory. For the first time in months, new listings were up in March compared to a year ago.

You’ve likely heard stories about people selling their home the weekend it goes on the market. It happens, but not without putting in the work ahead of time.

What’s the impact on the real estate market?

We’ve had questions lately about the types of home products we sell and the neighborhoods or parts of the city we work in.

You’ve been enjoying your yard and gardens all summer. Now it’s time to prep them for winter. Taking care of the yard and gardens in the fall means an easier clean-up come spring.

If you’re getting ready to list your home, a healthy and well-kept yard with clean, well-maintained gardens gives your property that all-important curbside appeal.

September is one of the best times of the year to travel. The days are cooler and the autumn foliage breathtaking. And with the kids in school, you’ll share the sites, hotels, and restaurants with fewer tourists.

During the pandemic we saw buyers flee the urban areas and head to the suburbs in search of more house (and flex space), larger yards, more outdoor living space, and easy access to trails and parks.

Industries of every stripe are getting hit with pandemic supply-chain disruptions. If you’re waiting to move into a new build or renovating an existing home, you’re likely feeling the squeeze.

The Denver real estate market remains competitive. Still, it’s not a bad time to buy a house. Mortgage rates are low, home values continue to rise and, in many situations, buying is still more affordable than renting.

Blooming trees and shrubs, longer days, and gardens coming to life are big motivators to get us thinking about our yards. Seasoned gardeners know exactly what needs to be done in the spring but if you’re a newcomer, pick a project that’s doable. Start small to keep from feeling overwhelmed.

Buying a house in Denver right now is challenging. Multiple offers, high prices, and stiff competition are all part of the story. Yet our biggest advice this spring is don’t be afraid to buy.

If you’re sitting on the sidelines because you’re afraid you won’t find another house to buy, rest assured. There are things we can negotiate that take the worry out of selling.

Like everything else about how we live, all those hours we spent at home in 2020 are influencing design trends for 2021. We’re re-thinking how we use the rooms in our homes. Flex space is golden. Ditto for patios, porches and decks. Home gyms are on more people’s radar than ever before.

As we look ahead to 2021, it’s helpful to take a look at where we’ve been. Despite the pandemic, job losses, and a recession, 2020 saw an incredible surge in housing.