Just the Numbers

Good morning. We are one month into the year and my inbox is full of projections and expectations. I’ve learned to watch the trends, but let the data lead the way. This newsletter features the latest numbers and how they impact the market. Additionally, I’ve included some community events and tips for preparing your home (for sale, or just to be a good neighbor).

🥚 Read to the bottom for an interesting comparison of the price of eggs vs. housing.

If you or someone you know are planning a move this year, or just unpacking those thoughts, contact me and let’s meet for a discussion. I’d be glad to share my real estate expertise and provide you with the latest information to help you with your decisions. No pressure!

Todd Holmes, Re/Max Alliance
Serving residential buyers and sellers in the Denver metro area
📧 [email protected]
📞 (303) 570-3419
🖥️ http://www.toddholmesrealestate.com

Prices have dropped from their highest point in 2024, but they are still higher than they were last year.

This chart shows that prices in 2024 peaked in April and started a steady decline through December (but still finished positive for the year). At the start of the year, we had declining mortgage rates, rising inventory, and strong buyer demand driving home values higher. Buyers faced more competition, and sellers did not have to discount prices significantly.

In the Summer months, sales began to slow but list prices were higher leading to an increase in the gap between list price and sold price (the orange line). By the end of the year, prices were declining along with the discount to close price indicating seller’s being more price competitive. Buyer demand historically declines at the end of the year as well.

Conclusions

Only a small percentage of homes are selling at or above list price. Listings that are priced correctly and marketed well tend to sell faster, but most buyers are coming in with offers below the list price. With inventory a little higher in 2025, experts are predicting to see moderate home value increases, some seasonal buyer demand, but an overall neutral year in the real estate market.

Check out these charts showing expectations for 2025

Market Update: Significant Increase in Pending Homes

In an early review of 2025 market data, the number of active listings is generally unchanged from January to February. This is expected to rise in the coming months based on seasonal norms.

The most notable change in 2025 is the 30% jump in homes under contract from January to February. This is a sign of early season buyers finding good values in the market. These buyers are getting ahead of the expected increase in demand common in March, April, and May.

Market Statistics - End of Year

Denver Restaurant Week

Mark your calendars… Denver restaurant week is approaching. This year’s event is scheduled for March 7-16. Click here for more information.

Staging Tips for Your Front Yard

If you are thinking about selling your house, don’t forget about your front yard landscaping. Prior to selling, I work with my clients to stage your home including a complete walkthrough of your property. I share details that buyers in the market tend to focus on during showings and issues that could prevent an offer from being received.

Why Is the Front Yard Important?

The front yard (including your front porch) is your home’s ‘first impression’. Photos don’t always tell the story, and a home buyer will quickly decide if your home is worth their time for a tour. Once they make it to the porch, while the agent is unlocking the door, a buyer is looking around - again deciding if the home is worth seeing.

What Should I Be Doing to Stage the Front Yard?

• Fresh coat of paint on the house (let me help with your paint colors)

• Replace any foggy, broken windows

• Repair broken window screens (and give your windows a cleaning)

• Paint (or stain) your front door and install new door hardware

• Plants on the porch along with a sitting area with some nice chairs

• Fertilize the yard for a nice green, weed free lawn

• Cut back overgrown trees and bushes

• Remove garden hoses, trash, and other unnecessary items

• In Winter, make sure to remove snow and ice prior to showings

Contact me if you have questions or if you would like to schedule a time to walk through your home with a realtor’s eye!

Price of Eggs Vs. Housing

Your business is important to me, and I’m always available for your questions. Don’t hesitate to reach out for any of your real estate questions (or general community knowledge). I work hard to be your trusted real estate advisor - even if you are not selling soon.

But, if you do have plans to move, contact me today. I’m here for you and your referrals!