Market Updates • April 15, 2026

Denver Metro Market Update – March 2026: Buyers Move with Purpose as Spring Takes Hold

by LaDawn Sperling

March 2026 brought a clear signal: Denver buyers are paying attention, and when the right home comes along, they are ready to move. Despite mortgage rates climbing back above six percent during the month and ongoing uncertainty in financial markets, buyer activity surged across the metro area — pending sales jumped nearly 31 percent month-over-month. Spring arrived early this year in more ways than one, and the housing market reflected that energy.

That said, this is not a market running on emotion. Buyers are well-informed and selective. Sellers who have done the work — pricing thoughtfully, preparing carefully, presenting well — are seeing the results. Those who haven’t are learning that today’s buyers have done their homework before they ever schedule a showing.

Market Overview – March 2026:

Median Close Price: $590,000 — ↑ 2.61% from February 2026

New Listings: 5,986 — ↑ 19.94% from February 2026

Days in MLS (Median): 16 days — ↓ 50% from February — buyers are moving quickly

Close-Price-to-List-Price Ratio: 99.13% — well-priced homes are achieving nearly full asking price

Current Conditions

Inventory continued to build in March, with active listings reaching 9,846 — up 9.55 percent from February. That headline number can sound intimidating, but context matters: active inventory is only 0.84 percent above where it was in March 2025. The narrative of dramatically elevated supply doesn’t hold up when measured against the same time last year. What has changed is demand, which softened meaningfully over the past two years — and March suggests those two forces may finally be finding their footing together again.

Buyers came in broad-based. This wasn’t a single price point or segment driving activity — both detached and attached buyers moved with purpose. The close-price-to-list ratio of 99.13 percent reflects a market where well-priced homes are not negotiated down dramatically. Multiple offers returned in desirable neighborhoods and at popular price points. The 16-day median days in MLS confirms that buyers were not browsing — they were deciding.

The attached market — condos and townhomes — remains the softest segment. Rising HOA fees and insurance costs continue to weigh on buyer interest, and year-over-year data shows this segment lagging. Sellers in this category need to be especially thoughtful about pricing and flexible on concessions as the year progresses.

For Sellers

March rewarded sellers who showed up prepared. Pricing accurately, staging thoughtfully, and marketing well made a measurable difference this month. Buyers are informed — often knowing a home’s value before they step inside — so the margin for error on pricing is thin. If a home is priced right and presented well, spring 2026 is giving sellers a real opportunity. If not, extended days on market and eventual price adjustments are the likely outcome. Realistic expectations and a sound strategy are the foundation.

For Buyers

The pace picked up in March, but opportunities still exist for buyers who are prepared and strategic. The median days on market of 16 days means there is still time to evaluate carefully — this is not the frenzy of 2021 or 2022. In the attached segment especially, buyers have meaningful leverage: more choices, more time, and in many cases, seller flexibility on concessions. Working with a knowledgeable advisor to understand the micro-market you’re targeting is the most valuable investment you can make before you make an offer.

Looking Ahead

Spring is traditionally Denver’s most active season, and with inventory building and buyer activity gaining momentum, the next 30 to 60 days will be telling. Mortgage rate movements, and developments around the Iran conflict’s impact on energy prices and inflation, may influence buyer confidence and affordability in the months ahead. Locally, the Stage 1 drought conditions declared by Denver Water are worth watching — they add a layer of consideration for buyers evaluating outdoor spaces, landscaping, and HOA common areas. The fundamentals of the Denver market remain intact. Change is constant, and being well-informed and well-prepared is the best position to be in, on either side of a transaction.

Need Help Navigating This Market?

Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply trying to understand what this market means for the next chapter in your life, I’d love to have a conversation. Navigating change is something I’ve built my career on — and making good things happen for good people is what gets me to work every morning.

LaDawn Sperling

Real Estate Professional | Coldwell Banker Realty

📞 720.915.2619

📧 ladawn@ladawn.realtor

Home Staging in Lakewood, CO: How We Got This 1930s Tudor Under Contract in 3 Days

by LaDawn Sperling

Written and Designed by Dana Gutwein

If you’re thinking about selling your home in the Denver metro area, especially in established neighborhoods like Lakewood, staging your listing helps you stand out- ultimately helping you sell your home faster and for more money.

Home staging isn’t about decorating- it’s about appealing to the greatest number of buyers, ensuring the photos look fantastic, and creating an emotional connection when someone walks through the door.

Recently, I had the opportunity to stage this beautiful 1930’s Tudor right in the heart of Lakewood. The first time I walked into this house, I fell in love with it. So much charm– original fireplace, arched doorways, warmth and character from the wood flooring.

I knew immediately that the goal wasn’t to change or hide the character of this home, but to enhance it.

Living Room | Before and After

The entrance to the home is the living room– our opportunity to immediately create a first impression. The first decision I made was to lean into the fireplace as the focal point. I selected a larger scale piece of art from our inventory, with a more historic feel (rather than modern) to ground the space and paired it with a mix of light and warm, and midtone pieces. By simplifying the layout and arranging the furniture to support the focal point, the room immediately feels more inviting and intentional.

Before:

After:

Dining Room | Before and After

In the dining room, I focused on flow, proportion, and maintaining the home’s character. I oriented the table to match the shape of the room, which allowed for comfortable walkways, and maintained a sense of openness. I centered the table under the fixture, which helps the room feel more intentional. Again, this is about working with, rather than fighting, the home. I paired it with a textural rug to counteract the more modern feeling of the table and the chairs, as well as adding a textured bench. I styled the table with a few simple accessories; selecting larger scale pieces that look great in photos.

Before:

After:

Kitchen | Before and After

In the kitchen, I intentionally kept the staging simple. While the kitchen was not updated, I was struck by a sense of how natural lighting, wood cabinetry, and views of the mature trees created a quiet, secluded, almost romantic little setting for your morning coffee. The homeowner had a natural wood table with beautiful imperfections, and rather than replacing it, we kept it. I selected a piece of art – a still life of flowers and paired it with a simple floral vase on the table- white to help contrast with the darker, mid tone woods, creating a “moment.” The goal was subtle: brighten the space, honor the home’s character, and create feeling.

Before:

After:

Key Home Staging Takeaways

Every decision throughout the staging process came back to the same principle: enhance what makes the home special, rather than compete with it.

This home was on the market for just 72 hours and received multiple competing offers.

Enhance, don’t fight, your home’s natural character and floor plan
Create a clear focal point and let the layout support it.
Mixing light and dark elements creates balance and brightness- it doesn’t have to match perfectly, in fact, I prefer it that way!
Prioritize flow, open walkways make a home feel larger
Simplicity, openness, and thoughtful details – create the feeling of “I’m home”
New is not always better- character and pieces that feel collected often resonate more than anything you can buy off the shelf

About Us

LaDawn Sperling provides full-service home staging for her real estate clients in the Denver Metro Area, helping prepare both vacant and occupied listings for today’s market. Home staging design is led by Dana Gutwein, our team designer. Contact LaDawn with questions about how we can help prepare your home for success.

Real Estate News, Tips, & Tricks • April 9, 2026

Don’t Let Home Prices Headlines Fool You

by LaDawn Sperling

Spend about 5 minutes online searching for news about the housing market, and odds are you’ll see something pop up about home prices. You may even stumble onto social media influencers saying we’re headed for a crash. Let’s get you the context you need.

The truth is prices are going to vary depending on where you live. But they’re not crashing.

Here’s what you need to know.

The Local Perspective: Home Price Trends by Area

The biggest thing feeding into the confusion online is how different home price trends are by area right now. Take a look at this data from ResiClub and Zillow (see graph below).

About half of the largest metros are seeing prices go up.

The other half are seeing some declines.

Unfortunately, the online chatter only focuses on the markets where prices are down – and that makes it sound like something bigger is happening.

But, as you can see in this graph, that’s only one side of the story. The full picture is different.

The National Perspective: Moderate Price Growth

As a country, when you average it all together to get a true baseline, one thing becomes clear, home prices are still net positive at the national level.

According to the Redfin, national home prices were up about 1% year-over-year in February. So, what we’re seeing right now isn’t a collapse. It’s a market that’s normalizing after a period of unusually fast growth. And that impacts some local markets more than others – particularly those where prices rose too far, too fast during the pandemic.

A true crash, like what happened in 2008, would mean prices dropping sharply across the entire country. That’s just not what the data shows today. And it’s not where things are going either.

Experts Agree This Isn’t 2008

In fact, Fannie Mae surveyed over 100 housing market experts to ask their opinions on where prices are headed from here. And the experts agree, nationally, prices are expected to keep rising over the next five years:

That rise will be moderate, particularly this year, but the trend is clear. Nationally, prices are forecast to grow every year now through at least 2030 – and that’s normal. Daryl Fairweather, Chief Economist, at Redfin explains:

“House prices aren’t going to fall on a national scale any time soon—and that’s actually a good thing. It’s normal for house prices to rise gradually over time . . .”

That’s why even in the select areas where prices have dropped slightly this year, the decline is expected to be temporary. According to that same quarterly Fannie Mae survey mentioned above, 85% of the experts say the markets that are seeing mild declines right now will return to positive price growth before the end of 2027.

The main takeaway? This isn’t a crash. And prices aren’t expected to fall nationally. If anything, the few areas experiencing declines are expected to rebound in the next year or so.

Bottom Line

It’s easy to get caught up in headlines that make it sound like something big is about to happen. But don’t be fooled. The housing market isn’t crashing. It’s just shifting.

The key is understanding what’s actually happening in your market, so you can make the right move for you. Let’s connect if you want the local perspective.

Market Updates • March 18, 2026

Denver Metro Market Update – February 2026: Momentum Begins to Build

by LaDawn Sperling

As the calendar moved through February, the Denver Metro real estate market reached a familiar turning point. The quiet pace of winter began giving way to the early energy of the spring buying season. This transition often provides the first signals of the year’s market direction as buyers who have been waiting on the sidelines re-engage and sellers begin preparing homes for the market.

This year, the seasonal shift is happening alongside broader changes in inventory levels, pricing dynamics, and buyer behavior. Inventory carried over from 2025 included many motivated sellers who were willing to negotiate on price and concessions, creating opportunities for buyers entering the market early in the year.

Market Overview – February 2026

Median Sale Price: $580,000 — up 1.98% from January but down 3.33% from February 2025.
New Listings: 4,995 — up 12.15% from January and up 3.59% year-over-year, giving buyers more options as the market begins to warm.
Days in MLS (Median): 33 days — down from 53 days in January and up from 29 days a year ago.
Close-Price-to-List-Price Ratio: 98.70% — up from 97.96% in January, reflecting stronger buyer activity relative to new listings entering the market.

Current Conditions

February showed clear signs of increased activity. Pending sales rose significantly, increasing 29.26% month-over-month and 15.27% year-over-year, as buyers took advantage of softer pricing and improving borrowing conditions. Mortgage rates declined through February, finishing the last week of the month below six percent, providing encouragement for buyers and homeowners considering refinancing.

Inventory also grew as new listings increased 12.15%, giving buyers fresh options. Many homes that were competitively priced, in desirable locations, and well-prepared received multiple offers. At the same time, homes that were overpriced or required updates tended to remain on the market longer, attracting buyers seeking value opportunities.

The pace of the market also improved. Days on market decreased month-over-month for both attached and detached homes, and closed sales rose 29.89% from January. The increase in the close-price-to-list-price ratio further reflects healthier buyer engagement relative to supply.

Despite February’s momentum, the year-to-date comparison still shows the market trailing 2025, with sales volume down 13.17% and median prices down 2.21%. The recalibration between inventory and buyer demand that began several years ago continues to shape today’s market conditions.

For Sellers

The February data reinforces the importance of preparation and pricing strategy. Homes that entered the market competitively priced and well presented were met with strong interest and, in some cases, multiple offers. Sellers who align their pricing with today’s market conditions rather than past peak values are seeing quicker sales and stronger buyer engagement.

For Buyers

Buyers continue to benefit from improved inventory and more balanced market conditions than in recent years. While mortgage rate fluctuations can create uncertainty, buyers who remain focused on their long-term goals and explore financing options such as rate buydowns or alternative loan structures can position themselves to act confidently when the right home becomes available.

Looking Ahead

As spring approaches, the Denver Metro market appears positioned for a more active season. Inventory is improving, buyer activity is strengthening, and pricing is reflecting current market realities rather than past expectations. Buyers have meaningful choices, and sellers who enter the market prepared and priced appropriately are likely to find an engaged audience.

Mortgage rates will likely remain a key factor influencing buyer behavior. For many participants in the market, success in 2026 will come from focusing on strategy and preparation rather than waiting for dramatic shifts.

Need Help Navigating This Market?

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply exploring your options, I’m here to help you navigate the Denver Metro market with informed insights and thoughtful guidance.

Real Estate News, Tips, & Tricks • February 20, 2026

Schedule a Consultation with Top Denver Real Estate Agents

by LaDawn Sperling

How can homeowners in the Denver Metro area effectively schedule a consultation with top real estate agents for selling their homes?

Homeowners in Denver can schedule a consultation with top real estate agents by researching agents’ expertise, utilizing local real estate networks, and preparing questions to understand the selling process.

Engaging Introduction

Thinking about selling your home in the vibrant Denver Metro area? Whether you’re in Lakewood, Wheat Ridge, or Castle Rock, choosing the right real estate agent is crucial for maximizing your home’s potential. With Denver’s dynamic market, finding an agent who understands the local nuances can make all the difference. Let’s explore how you can seamlessly schedule a consultation with top real estate agents and prepare for a successful home sale.

Understanding the Importance of a Consultation

When considering selling your home, scheduling a consultation with a knowledgeable real estate agent can set the stage for a successful transaction. This step is more than just a formality; it’s your opportunity to gauge the agent’s expertise and approach to selling homes in your specific area.

Why Consultations Matter

Personalized Advice: A consultation allows you to receive tailored advice based on your property’s unique features and current market conditions.
Agent’s Market Insight: You’ll gain insights into local market trends, pricing strategies, and buyer expectations specific to Denver and its surrounding communities.
Trust Building: This initial meeting helps establish trust and ensures that the agent’s values align with your goals.

A seasoned agent will walk you through the selling process, addressing any concerns and setting realistic expectations. This foundation is critical for a smooth and successful home sale.

Researching and Selecting the Right Agent

Choosing the right agent involves more than just picking a name from a list. You need someone who not only knows the Denver market but also aligns with your selling goals.

Identifying Top Agents

Local Expertise: Look for agents who have a proven track record in your specific area, whether it’s Golden, Littleton, or another nearby community.
Online Reviews and Testimonials: Sites like Zillow or Realtor.com offer reviews from past clients, providing insights into an agent’s performance and client satisfaction.
Networking and Referrals: Leverage local real estate networks and ask for recommendations from friends or family who have successfully sold homes in the area.

Evaluating Agent Credentials

Experience and Specialization: Ensure the agent has experience in selling homes similar to yours and understands local regulations, including Fair Housing and Colorado Real Commission’s Advertising Laws.
Professional Affiliations: Verify that they adhere to the REALTOR® Code of Ethics and other industry standards. By conducting thorough research, you can shortlist agents who are not only experienced but also a good fit for your needs.

Preparing for the Consultation

Once you’ve selected potential agents, it’s crucial to prepare for your consultation to make the most of the opportunity.

Key Questions to Ask

Market Analysis: How do you determine the listing price for homes in my area?
Marketing Strategy: What specific marketing tactics will you use to sell my home?
Communication: How often will you update me on the progress, and through which channels?

Documentation and Information

Home Details: Have a list of upgrades and renovations ready to discuss.
Neighborhood Insights: Share your knowledge about local amenities and schools to help the agent understand your property’s appeal.

Being prepared allows you to assess the agent’s ability to meet your expectations and provides clarity on the selling process.

Navigating the Selling Process

Understanding the selling process helps in setting realistic expectations and facilitates smoother interactions with your chosen agent.

Steps in the Selling Process

Home Evaluation and Pricing:The agent will conduct a comparative market analysis to set a competitive price.
Staging and Marketing: Professional photography, open houses, and online listings are crucial to attracting buyers.
Negotiation and Closing: The agent will handle offers, negotiate terms, and guide you through closing, ensuring compliance with RESPA and TCPA regulations.

Common Challenges

Market Fluctuations: The Denver market can be unpredictable; a skilled agent will adjust strategies accordingly.
Buyer Financing: Agents will verify buyer qualifications to prevent last-minute financing issues.

Being aware of these steps and potential challenges prepares you for a smoother selling journey.

FAQ Section

What should I expect during a consultation with a real estate agent?

Expect a detailed discussion about your home, the local market, and the agent’s strategy for selling your property. It’s also an opportunity to ask questions and assess the agent’s expertise.

How do I know if an agent is right for me?

Look for agents with a strong local presence, positive client reviews, and a clear communication style that matches your preferences.

What are the costs involved in hiring a real estate agent?

Typically, agents charge a commission, which is a percentage of the sale price. Discuss fees upfront during the consultation to avoid surprises.

Closing Section

Scheduling a consultation with a top Denver real estate agent is a strategic move that can significantly impact your home selling experience. By understanding the process, preparing effectively, and choosing the right partner, you’re setting yourself up for success. Now that you’re equipped with this knowledge, reach out to a qualified agent and take the next step toward selling your home with confidence.

Market Updates • February 16, 2026

Denver Metro Market Update – January 2026: Early Signals After a Flat Year

by LaDawn Sperling

As 2026 begins, the Denver Metro real estate market is carrying forward the same cautious momentum that defined much of the past three years. Buyers and sellers entered January looking for signs of directional movement after an extended period of stagnation. While uncertainty remains, early activity suggests renewed engagement on both sides of the market.

Market Overview – January 2026:

Median Sale Price: $569,500 — down 0.96% from December and down 0.96% year-over-year, reflecting typical winter softness rather than a market correction.
New Listings: 4,455 — a sharp 152.55% increase from December and up 2.41% from January 2025, as many sellers re-entered the market after the holidays.
Days in MLS (Median): 53 days — up from 45 in December and 45 last year, continuing the trend toward longer timelines.
Close-Price-to-List-Price Ratio: 97.94% — down slightly from December and last year, showing increased buyer leverage and more negotiation.

Current Conditions:

January showed a clear seasonal reset. Buyer interest returned quickly, with pending sales up 47.19% month-over-month, signaling renewed activity even as affordability challenges persist. However, closed sales declined 40.55% from December, a reminder that closings lag behind contract activity — especially following a slow holiday period.

Inventory also moved higher. Active listings rose to 8,228, up 8.16% from December and 7.02% from January 2025. Historically, active listings tend to decline from December to January. This increase highlights stronger seller participation heading into the new year.

While volume and prices remain under pressure, the market is behaving predictably, not defensively. These are measured shifts, not distress signals.

For Sellers:

This is a market that rewards realism. Pricing based on peak years or early optimism leads to longer days on market and eventual concessions. Homes that are priced accurately from day one — and prepared thoughtfully — continue to attract buyers. With inventory rising, strategy and presentation matter more than timing.

For Buyers:

Buyers have more options and more leverage than they’ve had in years. Negotiation is back on the table, especially for homes that have been on the market longer. That said, well-priced and well-located properties are still moving. Being prepared to act when the right opportunity appears remains key.

Looking Ahead:

Despite three years of flat performance, seasonality remains intact. With inventory rebuilding earlier than normal, the spring market may arrive sooner than expected. Major shifts aren’t on the horizon, but stability can be an opportunity for those who act decisively when personal timing aligns.

This market isn’t broken — it’s normalized. And navigating it successfully requires clarity, preparation, and adaptability.

Real Estate News, Tips, & Tricks • February 3, 2026

Best Real Estate Agents in Denver Metro: How to Choose the Right Agent for Selling Your Home

by LaDawn Sperling

How do you choose the right real estate agent to sell your home in the Denver Metro area?

Selecting the right real estate agent in Denver Metro involves evaluating experience, local market knowledge, and communication skills to ensure a successful home sale.

Selling your home in the bustling Denver Metro area can be a daunting task. With a competitive market and diverse neighborhoods, finding the right real estate agent is crucial. This guide provides experienced homeowners with insights on choosing an agent who will navigate the complexities of the Denver market effectively.

Understanding the Denver Metro Market

Denver Metro is a unique real estate market characterized by its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and price range. From the historic homes in Lakewood to the modern developments in Highlands Ranch, understanding local nuances is essential. A seasoned agent will have in-depth knowledge of market trends, pricing strategies, and buyer preferences specific to areas like Arvada, Golden, and Littleton.

Local Expertise Matters

When selecting an agent, prioritize local expertise. An agent familiar with the Denver Metro area can provide insights into neighborhood dynamics, school districts, and community amenities. This local knowledge not only aids in setting a competitive price but also in marketing your home effectively to attract the right buyers. Look for agents who have a proven track record in your specific area, as they are more likely to have established networks and resources.

Evaluating Experience and Credentials

Experience is a critical factor when choosing a real estate agent. An agent with years of experience in the Denver market will have navigated various market conditions and can offer strategic advice tailored to your needs. Check for credentials such as certifications from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and adherence to ethical standards. These credentials ensure that the agent is committed to professional excellence and compliance with industry regulations.

Communication and Negotiation Skills

Effective communication is vital in the real estate process. Your agent should be responsive, keeping you informed about every step of the selling process. They should also be skilled negotiators, capable of securing the best terms and price for your home. During initial meetings, assess their communication style and ensure it aligns with your expectations. A good agent listens to your needs and tailors their approach accordingly.

Importance of Transparency

Transparency builds trust between you and your agent. Ensure your agent provides clear, straightforward answers to your questions and is transparent about their commission structure and marketing plan. A reputable agent will outline a detailed strategy for selling your home, including how they plan to market it and the platforms they will use to reach potential buyers.

Marketing Strategy

A robust marketing strategy is crucial for attracting buyers. Your agent should utilize a mix of traditional and digital marketing tactics, including professional photography, virtual tours, and social media advertising. In the tech-savvy Denver market, leveraging online platforms can significantly increase your home’s visibility. Ask potential agents about their marketing plans and success stories from past sales.

The Interview Process

Interviewing multiple agents is a crucial step in finding the right fit. Prepare a list of questions focusing on their experience, market knowledge, and strategy for selling your home. Consider asking about recent sales in your area, average time on market for their listings, and how they handle challenges during the selling process. This will give you a sense of their expertise and how they might handle the sale of your home.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Be wary of agents who make unrealistic promises or pressure you into quick decisions. An ethical agent will provide a realistic assessment of your home’s value and market conditions. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s worth exploring other options.

Conclusion

Choosing the right real estate agent in the Denver Metro area requires careful consideration of experience, local expertise, and communication skills. By selecting an agent who understands the intricacies of the local market and aligns with your expectations, you position yourself for a successful home sale. Take the time to interview potential agents, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts to make the best choice for your needs.

Real Estate News, Tips, & Tricks • January 22, 2026

Home Updates That Actually Pay You Back When You Sell

by LaDawn Sperling

Planning to sell this spring? While you may be tempted to hold off until the first blooms or the spring showers hit, that’s actually waiting too long to get started by today’s standards.

Buyers have more options than they did a few years ago. So, it’s worth it to tackle repairs now and make sure your house is set up to stand out. Because you don’t want to be caught scrambling right before the spring rush. Or, running out of time to do the work your house really needs.

The key is focusing on updates that actually matter. And that’s exactly where return-on-investment (ROI) data comes in handy.

Which Projects Tend to Pay Off?

Every year, Zonda looks at which home improvements deliver the most bang for the buck when you go to sell the home. And the results can be a little surprising.

The green in the chart below shows the updates where sellers have the biggest potential to add value based on that research:

While there’s a wide range of projects represented in this data, the cool part is, some of the top winners aren’t big to-do’s. They’re just swapping out doors.

Small Updates, Big Visual Impact

This goes to show little projects can have a big impact. So, you don’t have to spend a fortune. And you don’t need to tackle everything on this list. But in today’s market, doing nothing can work against you.

Now that buyers have more homes to choose from, a lot of them are going to opt for what’s move-in ready.

The best advice? Focus on what your house needs, whether it’s listed here or not – like the repairs you’ve been putting off. A front door or shutters in need of a little TLC. Piles of leaves in the yard. Scuffed up paint where your kids play inside. Those details matter too.

Mallory Slesser, Interior designer and Home Stager, explains it to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) this way:

“If you’re looking for affordable updates that pack a punch, dollar for dollar, I would say painting; changing out light fixtures; changing out hardware; maybe new draperies or window treatments. Those are all cost-effective ways to make a big statement. It really changes the space.”

These seemingly small things help buyers focus on the home itself – not the work they think they’ll have to do after moving in. And that’s paying off for other sellers. Buyers are often willing to spend more on homes that feel well cared for, updated, and move-in ready.

This Chart Is a Starting Point, Not a Strategy

Here’s the important thing to remember. National data like this is a guideline. Buyer preferences are going to vary by location, price point, and even neighborhood. That means a project that boosts value in one area might be unnecessary (or even overkill) in yours.

That’s why the first step should always be to talk with a local real estate professional before you start.

An experienced agent can help you answer questions like:

Which updates do buyers in your market expect?
What can you skip without hurting your sale?
Where will a small investment make the biggest difference?
Is it better to update, or sell as-is?

That guidance helps you avoid over-improving and under-preparing.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking to sell this spring, you still have time to make updates that help your home stand out – without taking on a full renovation.

If you’re not sure where to start, let’s talk through what makes sense for your house. A quick conversation can help you prioritize the updates that’ll pack the biggest punch.

What’s one upgrade you’ve been thinking about – and wondering if it’s worth it?

Market Updates • Uncategorized • January 16, 2026

Denver Metro Market Update – December 2025: Stability Through the Slowdown

by LaDawn Sperling

As 2025 comes to a close, the Denver Metro real estate market continues to reflect the stabilization trend we’ve seen since 2023. While national headlines speak of slowdown and uncertainty, the data tells a more nuanced story—one of seasonal rhythm, measured activity, and recalibrated expectations.

Market Overview – December 2025:

Median Sale Price: $575,000 — down just 0.86% from November and 0.51% from December 2024, showing year-end price stability.
New Listings: 1,775 — a 31.91% drop from November, following a predictable seasonal pattern as sellers hold off during the holidays.
Days in MLS (Median): 45 days — up from 36 in November and 39 this time last year, indicating longer timelines in a more balanced market.
Close-Price-to-List-Price Ratio: 98.25% — holding steady, suggesting that well-priced homes continue to sell near asking.

Current Conditions:

Active listings fell 27.59% month-over-month as many sellers temporarily pulled homes off the market for the holidays. Despite this dip, closed sales actually rose 9.23% compared to November. While some sellers adjusted prices and timelines, the overall market remained steady. Throughout the year, broader economic forces—interest rates, inflation, and policy shifts—had more impact on buyer behavior than traditional market fundamentals.

For Sellers:
The 2025 market rewarded those who priced strategically from day one. As we head into 2026, presentation and preparation will continue to matter. Buyers are thoughtful and cost-conscious, and homes that are move-in ready and competitively priced are still moving. Overpricing leads to extended market time and deeper concessions—getting it right up front makes all the difference.

For Buyers:
Inventory may be down now due to seasonal norms, but options are expected to return in early 2026. With stable pricing and fewer bidding wars, this is a great time to plan your purchase. Focus on financing strategies like rate buydowns and work closely with professionals who can help you find the right opportunities as more listings return in Q1.

Looking Ahead:
As we enter 2026, expect continued steadiness—modest appreciation, moderate volume, and mortgage rates that hover between 6% and 7%. Buyers and sellers who adapt to this “new normal” with flexible, well-informed strategies will be best positioned for success.

Let’s Talk Strategy for 2026
Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or just need guidance on where the market’s heading, I’m here to help you make confident, informed decisions.

This update is based on information provided by the Denver Metro Association of Realtors® for the period of December 1, 2025, through December 31 2025, for the following counties: Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Clear Creek, Denver, Douglas, Elbert, Gilpin, Jefferson and Park.

Real Estate News, Tips, & Tricks • December 18, 2025

Why Selling Your House This Winter Gives You an Edge

by LaDawn Sperling

Spring gets all the attention, but it’s not always the best time to sell a house. Yes, more buyers show up, but so do a lot of other sellers.

Winter is different. With fewer homes on the market, your house has a much better chance of standing out. And that one advantage can make a big difference.

Winter Is When Your Listing Stands Out

History shows the number of homes for sale tends to drop during the winter months. It’s a trend that’s predictable almost every year.

Data from Realtor.com shows this pattern clearly. Inventory dips in the winter (the green circles in the graph below), then climbs again as soon as spring approaches:

And based on the latest data available, it looks like that pattern may be true again in 2025. The graph shows the supply of homes for sale is starting to come down as we head into the end of the year. And if history is any indicator of where it goes next, it’ll continue to fall just like it usually does.

Here’s why knowing this gives you an edge.

While inventory is higher now than it’s been in the last few years, there are still not as many homes for sale as there’d be in a normal market (2017-2019). And we may even be poised for inventory to dip a bit as the weather cools.

That gives you an opportunity. If you work with an agent to list now, you’ll sell while other homeowners are taking their homes off the market and before the number of homes for sale climbs this spring.

Less competition from other sellers now = more attention on your house this season.

Why wait until everyone else lists in the spring when you can get ahead of the crowd?

Winter Buyers Are Serious Buyers

Another big perk is the buyers looking right now usually need to move.

They’re not just browsing for fun. They’re relocating for work, dealing with a lease ending, making a big life change, or simply ready to move forward sooner rather than later. As U.S. News explains:

“. . . buyers who are trudging through wintry weather often have a good reason for being out in the cold – they need to move. Whether it’s a relocation for a new job, a divorce or the arrival of a new baby, buyers who brave the elements are usually serious and able to make quick decisions.”

That means fewer weekend wanderers and more highly motivated, qualified buyers walking through your door.

And since we know inventory usually drops this time of year, odds are they’ll have a little less to choose from compared to the fall. If you price and prep your house right, maybe your house will be the one that catches their eye.

Bottom Line

Winter might not get the same buzz as spring, but that’s exactly why it works in your favor. Less competition from other sellers, more motivated buyers, and a chance for your house to truly stand out.

If you’re thinking about selling, this season can give you a real advantage. Let’s connect and talk through what listing now could look like for you.