The $1M+ market is active, but buyers are taking their time

While the overall market has stabilized, DMAR notes the $1 million+ segment strengthened in demand and average price point in 2025, and the average price above $1M reached about $1.64M, the highest recorded in at least five years.

In other words: luxury is not “frozen.” It is simply more thoughtful.

Where this shows up locally

Across Keenan Real Estate’s core luxury footprint, buyers are looking closely at:

• Cherry Hills Village (legacy lots, privacy, proximity)
• Greenwood Village (access, established neighborhoods, DTC adjacency)
• Lone Tree (newer builds, lifestyle, convenience)
• Castle Pines and Castle Pines Village (views, golf-course communities, larger lots)

What luxury buyers should do right now

Negotiate like a businessperson.
Even in luxury, buyers may ask for concessions, repairs, or creative financing. This is consistent with the broader Denver Metro trend of sellers accommodating buyer needs.

Look beyond the “headline.”
Focus on total ownership costs: insurance, utilities, HOA, and long-term maintenance. That matters in gated and HOA-driven communities.

Get specific about lifestyle.
If you want walkability and restaurants, Denver or parts of Englewood may fit better than farther south. If you want space and views, Castle Pines Village and The Pinery might be the match.

What luxury sellers need to know (and do)

Presentation is not optional.
DMAR emphasizes investing in presentation and pre-listing prep.
For luxury, that means: professional staging guidance, strong photography, pre-inspections (where appropriate), and a clear “why this home” story.

Price to attract, not to test.
In a market where buyers have more leverage, overpricing can lead to longer market time and bigger price reductions later.

Make the terms easy.
Smooth showing access, flexible closing windows, and clear disclosures reduce buyer friction.

Keenan Real Estate tip: Luxury marketing should feel like a curated launch, not a listing. The right strategy is different for Cherry Hills Village than it is for Castle Pines.

The “new normal” in Denver Metro: steadier prices, smarter negotiations

If the last few years felt like whiplash, 2025 closed with something closer to stability. Denver Metro continues the same “stabilization pattern” seen since 2023, with affordability and mortgage rates heavily shaping decisions and outcomes.

That shift changes the playbook across South Metro favorites like Parker, Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Centennial, Lone Tree, and Littleton, and also for in-demand pockets like Cherry Hills Village, Greenwood Village, and Denver.

What’s driving the market right now

1) Price movement is modest, not dramatic
DMAR noted very small year-over-year price movement in 2025: detached homes were up slightly, and attached homes dipped.
Translation: we are in a market where pricing correctly and negotiating well matters more than trying to time a spike.

2) Sellers are adjusting, and buyers are negotiating
Sellers have been making price adjustments, staying on the market longer, and offering concessions and rate buydowns to meet buyers where they are.
That shows up in places like Aurora and Denver (more options) and throughout South Metro where buyers expect value.

3) Mortgage rates are a moving target
Nationally, late 2025 into early 2026 saw sales lift alongside lower rates and slower price growth.
Even small rate shifts can change monthly payments meaningfully, especially for move-up buyers targeting Castle Pines, Castle Pines Village, The Pinery, or Cherry Hills Village.

What buyers should do in 2026 (especially in Parker to Denver)

Ask for concessions like it’s normal (because it is).
In this market, it is common to request seller credits toward closing costs, rate buydowns, or repairs, particularly when the home is priced at the top of the range.

Widen the search just enough to win.
If you love Lone Tree but want more house for the payment, consider nearby areas in Centennial, Highlands Ranch, Englewood, or Littleton. If you love Cherry Hills Village but want options, Greenwood Village may offer a different mix of price points and lots.

Be ready when the right home appears.
A “balanced” market doesn’t mean slow. It means the best homes still move.

What sellers should do in 2026

Price right from day one.
DMAR specifically calls out that sellers need competitive pricing upfront, plus strong presentation and pre-listing prep.

Expect the buyer to ask for something.
Concessions are not a red flag anymore. They are a tool. The question is how to structure them so you net what you need.

Use timing, not luck.
Many listings come off the market over the holidays and re-enter in Q1, which can change competition and negotiating power.

Keenan Real Estate tip: Want a neighborhood-specific plan for your home in Parker, Castle Rock, Denver, or Cherry Hills Village? The right strategy depends on your property type, micro-location, and buyer pool.

The new year isn’t just a fresh start — it can also be a strategic moment in the Colorado real estate market, especially for sellers.

Why January Can Be a Strategic Time to List

January often presents a unique opportunity for sellers, particularly in active states like Colorado. Many companies finalize hiring plans, promotions, and transfers at the start of the year. That means relocation buyers with new jobs are actively searching for homes right after the holidays.

These buyers tend to be:

• High-intent
• Time-sensitive
• Ready to move quickly due to job start dates and relocation deadlines

In other words, they’re serious.

Fresh Buyers Re-Enter the Market

The holiday season often pauses home searches but once January hits, many buyers jump back in with renewed focus. This creates a wave of motivated house hunters who postponed decisions in December and are ready to act early in the year.

What the 2026 Market Signals

While Colorado migration patterns remain mixed overall, localized demand continues in Front Range communities, including Denver-area suburbs and popular out-of-state relocation destinations. Workforce mobility and career-driven moves remain a steady force shaping early-year market activity.

Less Competition, More Visibility

Because fewer sellers list immediately after the holidays, January can offer:

• Less competition from other listings
• Greater visibility for your home
• Increased attention from motivated relocation buyers

For sellers who want to stand out, timing matters.

Is January Right for You?

Whether you’re selling due to a career move, lifestyle change, or long-term planning, understanding early-year market dynamics can help you make confident decisions in 2026.

If 2024 and 2025 were about recalibration, 2026 is shaping up to be the year of informed opportunity in Colorado real estate.

After years of rapid growth, tight inventory, and intense competition, the market is settling into a more balanced rhythm. That’s good news — especially for buyers and sellers who understand how to navigate what comes next.

At Keenan Real Estate, we’re watching the signals closely. Here’s what’s likely to define Colorado’s housing market in 2026 — and how you can prepare.

1. A More Predictable Market Takes Shape

One of the biggest shifts heading into 2026 is market predictability.

Instead of extreme highs and sudden shifts, Colorado real estate is expected to move more steadily. Inventory levels have normalized, homes are spending more time on the market, and pricing strategies are becoming more data-driven than emotional.

For buyers, that means:

• More choices
• More thoughtful decision-making
• Less pressure to rush

For sellers, it means strategy matters more than speed.

2. Pricing Becomes More Local — and More Strategic

By 2026, pricing will be increasingly influenced by neighborhood-level trends, not just statewide headlines.

Some Colorado communities will continue to see strong demand — especially areas with walkability, accessibility, and proximity to employment hubs. Others may experience slower appreciation, making accurate pricing and presentation critical.

This is where local expertise becomes invaluable. Knowing how a home compares within its micro-market can be the difference between sitting and selling.

3. Inventory Creates Opportunity — Not Chaos

Unlike the ultra-competitive markets of the past, 2026 is expected to offer healthier inventory levels across much of the Front Range.

That doesn’t mean buyers can wait indefinitely — desirable homes will still move quickly — but it does mean:

• Fewer bidding wars
• More room for inspections and negotiations
• Better alignment between list price and final sale price

This balance benefits everyone when expectations are realistic.

4. Buyers in 2026: Plan First, Act Confidently

Affordability will remain a top consideration in 2026, but buyers who plan ahead will be in a strong position.

Successful buyers will:

• Understand their financing options early
• Watch seasonal patterns closely
• Focus on long-term livability, not just short-term trends

The goal isn’t timing the market perfectly — it’s buying smartly within it.

5. Sellers in 2026: Preparation Is Power

The days of “list it and they’ll come” are behind us.

In 2026, sellers who succeed will:

• Price with intention
• Invest in professional marketing
• Highlight what makes their home stand out

Homes that are well-presented and realistically priced will continue to perform well — even in a more balanced environment.

What This Means for You

Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply planning ahead, 2026 rewards informed decisions.

Colorado real estate isn’t slowing — it’s maturing. And that creates opportunities for those who understand how to move with the market instead of against it.

Finding an Accessible, Comfortable Colorado Home Starts Here

Colorado living should be welcoming for everyone—and the Front Range has more accessibility-friendly options than ever before. Whether you’re searching for a ranch-style home in Castle Rock, a wide-entry modern build in Parker, or a thoughtfully designed condo in Lone Tree, there are great choices that make day-to-day living easier and more comfortable.

If accessibility matters to you or someone you love, here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Look for single-level floorplans.
Ranch-style homes remain incredibly popular across Douglas County because they eliminate stairs without eliminating space.

2. Consider wider hallways and open-concept layouts.
Newer builds in communities like Aurora Southshore or Parker’s Anthology offer modern floorplans that support easier mobility.

3. Prioritize entry access.
Front porches with minimal steps, garages with flat entries, and manageable walkways can make a huge difference.

4. Think ahead to future needs.
Whether it’s aging in place or inviting loved ones to stay comfortably, an accessible home provides long-term peace of mind.

5. Let an agent who knows the area narrow the search.
We can pinpoint neighborhoods and homes already built with accessibility in mind.

Looking for an accessible home in Colorado’s Front Range? Contact Kimberly at (303) 564-6988 or Bill at (720) 606-3800.

Gratitude, Gatherings & Good Living: Why Thanksgiving Week Is the Perfect Time to Reimagine ‘Home’

The week of Thanksgiving tends to hit us with a pause — the kind that reminds us what “home” really means. It’s the scent of something warm in the oven, the hum of a full house, that first dusting of Colorado snow, and the people who make a space feel like a sanctuary.

But it’s also a perfect time to reflect on the future you want to create.

Maybe you’ve spent the last year dreaming of more room to host. A kitchen that finally fits your whole crew. A backyard that feels like an open invitation. A neighborhood that matches your lifestyle better than ever.

This season, gratitude often shows us what’s missing and what’s possible.

At Keenan Real Estate, we’ve spent the last few weeks helping families across Parker, Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, and Aurora do exactly that. Whether you’re settling into your forever home, considering a move next year, or simply exploring what’s out there, now is one of the best times to start the conversation.

The market has cooled just enough. Inventory is shifting. And buyers and sellers alike are heading into the holidays with clearer priorities and fresh motivation for 2026.

So while you’re gathering this week — around the table, by the fire, or with family visiting from out of town — pay attention to the moments that matter most. They might just guide you to your next chapter.

If you ever want to talk about your goals, your home’s value, or the neighborhoods you’re eyeing, we’re here, local, and ready to help.

Wishing you a warm, connected, gratitude-filled Thanksgiving.
— Kimberly & Bill Keenan
Keenan Real Estate
www.perfecthouseforyou.com

🍂 Wait … Move Now?

You’ve heard it before — “Spring is the best time to buy or sell.”
But here’s the insider truth from your local team at Keenan Real Estate: fall is where the magic happens.

When the aspen leaves fade to gold and the first snow teases the foothills, something shifts.
Homes feel homier. Streets feel calmer. Sellers are serious. Buyers are focused.
It’s not chaos — it’s clarity.

🔑 Fewer Bidding Wars, More Breathing Room

In November, you’re not elbowing through twenty offers or rushing into a decision.
You actually get to walk through a home and picture your life there — not just your closing date.

Imagine hanging holiday lights on your new front porch or hosting your first Friendsgiving in a kitchen that finally fits everyone.

☕ Cozy Season, Clear Decisions

There’s a reason we call it “cozy season.” Fireplaces crackle, coffee shops hum, and communities across Parker, Castle Rock, and Highlands Ranch come alive with fall festivals and small-town charm.
It’s the perfect backdrop for finding your next home — or saying goodbye to one with heart.

❤️ Ready for Your Fall Chapter?

Whether you’re buying, selling, or just window-shopping (with a pumpkin spice latte in hand), Keenan Real Estate is here for it — and for you.

Let’s turn this cozy season into your new home season.

📍 Serving Parker • Castle Rock • Highlands Ranch • Aurora • Centennial • and beyond

The latest fall market trends just released this week show something surprising across the Denver Metro area: buyer activity is holding steady, even as new listings drop. In fact, showing activity on homes priced between $450K–$750K remained 4% higher than the same time last year, while available inventory slipped by nearly 6%.

Translation? There’s quiet momentum happening beneath the surface—and those who move now can use it to their advantage. Whether you’re thinking about buying or selling, October isn’t a cooldown. It’s a positioning month.

Inventory Dip = Seller Advantage

With fewer new listings hitting the market this month, well-presented homes are getting serious attention.

• Days on market dropped slightly from September, a sign that motivated buyers are still making moves.
• Homes priced correctly are seeing stronger first-week engagement than expected for fall.
• Relocation-driven buyers (moving for end-of-year job placements and contracts) are driving a quiet but active pool of qualified showings.
  

If you're considering selling, this data signals one thing: your window isn’t closing — it’s opening strategically.

Buyer Activity Still Strong — But Quieter Competition

According to this week’s showing report, buyer tour requests didn't fall off like they typically do after summer. Instead, they leveled out — steady and intentional.

• Less competition means more space to negotiate.
  
• Sellers listing now are often more flexible than spring sellers.
  
• With interest rates expected to adjust again before year-end, some buyers are intentionally stepping in now to lock something in.
  

A steady market with less noise? That’s a rare opportunity for buyers who want to act intentionally — not reactively.

What This Means for You (Whether You're Buying or Selling)

Smart Real Estate Moves Right Now Are About Timing, Not Timing Out

Many people assume fall is the “off-season.” But according to this week's market data, fall is shifting into a strategic season. With inventory tightening and buyers still active, waiting could mean missing this quieter — but more calculated — market window.

Curious how these October numbers translate to your situation?

Whether you're thinking of listing before year-end or buying while the market is steady, we’ll help you interpret the trends — not just read them.

When most people think about real estate, they picture a tug-of-war: buyers pulling one way, sellers pulling the other. In reality, today’s market is a little less “us vs. them” and a lot more opportunity — if you know how to play it.

At Keenan Real Estate, we’ve been watching shifts unfold in real time, and here’s the surprising truth: both buyers and sellers have advantages right now. The market is less about who “wins” and more about how to use timing, strategy, and guidance to make the most of your move.

For Buyers: The Door Isn’t Closed

Yes, interest rates are still a hot topic, but here’s what you don’t always hear:

• More inventory means more choices. With more homes hitting the market, buyers are no longer in bidding wars for every single property. You can take a breath, compare, and make smarter offers.
  
• Creative financing is back. Many buyers are securing homes with less than 20% down, exploring adjustable-rate mortgages, or using seller concessions to offset costs.
  
• Long-term perspective matters. Rates rise and fall, but buying now means you’re building equity instead of waiting on the sidelines. Refinancing later is always an option.
  

In other words: if you’ve been waiting for the “perfect” time, it may look a lot like right now.

For Sellers: It’s Not 2021—But That’s OK

Sellers often ask: “Did I miss my chance to cash in?” The answer is no. Here’s why:

• Values are holding strong. While the frenzy of multiple-over-asking offers has cooled, home values in Colorado remain historically high.
  
• Serious buyers are still out there. Today’s buyers aren’t just “looking”— they’re ready to make a move, which means fewer wasted showings.
  
• Strategic marketing is the difference maker. With more listings on the market, it takes a smart pricing strategy and strong exposure (that’s where we come in).
  

Selling today is less about a “feeding frenzy” and more about finding the right match — which is often less stressful and more predictable. 

For Everyone 

Maybe you’re not buying or selling right now — but you’re still part of the conversation. Whether it’s friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors, the topic of real estate always comes up. Here’s your takeaway:

• The market moves both ways. It’s not about winners and losers — it’s about informed decisions.
  
• Good advice matters. Misinformation spreads fast (ever heard someone say you must have 20% down?). The truth is often a lot more flexible.
  
• Timing isn’t everything. Strategy, preparation, and trusted guidance matter more than trying to predict the “perfect” moment.

The Bottom Line

Real estate isn’t a one-lane road — it’s a two-way street. Buyers have room to breathe, sellers still have strong value, and everyone has choices.

The key? Working with a team that understands both sides of the market and how to make timing work in your favor.

At Keenan Real Estate, we don’t just help you “buy” or “sell” — we help you move smart. Because in this market, opportunity doesn’t just knock once.

The Market Moves Both Ways: What Buyers and Sellers Should Know This Fall

As the air gets crisp and the leaves start to turn, the real estate market is shifting too. Whether you’re thinking about buying your first home, upgrading to more space, or selling to start a new chapter, this season is bringing opportunities worth paying attention to.

At Keenan Real Estate, we work with both buyers and sellers every day — and here’s what we’re seeing right now in our community.

For buyers: Timing is everything

• More homes, more choices: Fall often brings a new wave of listings. Families who waited until after summer vacations to move are now putting homes on the market, giving buyers a fresh set of options.
• Motivated sellers: Sellers who list in the fall are often eager to move before the holidays, which can mean more flexibility during negotiations.
• Locking in your lifestyle: Buying now means you could be in your new home before the snow falls — and fully settled in by the time holiday gatherings roll around.
  

Tip: Don’t just look at the home; look at the neighborhood this season. Fall gives you a clear sense of the community vibe before winter sets in.

For sellers: The right season to stand out

• Curb appeal counts: A simple pumpkin on the porch, fresh mulch, or seasonal flowers can make your home instantly inviting. Buyers love seeing homes that feel warm and well-cared-for.
  
• Less competition, more eyes: While spring and summer are busy, fall brings fewer listings. That means your home may stand out more in a slightly less crowded market.
  
• Serious buyers only: People shopping this time of year aren’t browsing — they’re ready to make a move.
  

Tip: Stage with the season in mind. Cozy throw blankets, warm lighting, and a touch of autumn décor can help buyers picture themselves at home.

Where buyers and sellers meet

The beauty of real estate is that buyers and sellers are working toward the same goal: creating the next chapter of their story. Buyers want to picture their future; sellers want to honor their past while moving forward. That’s where we come in.

At Keenan Real Estate, we’re not just connecting people with properties — we’re helping our community grow, one move at a time.

Ready to make your move?

Whether you’re dreaming of buying before the first snowfall or selling to start fresh in the new year, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out today — let’s talk about your goals, your timing, and how to make this season work for you.