As a Denver Realtor who’s been helping buyers navigate our unique market for years, I’m here to give you the straight talk about what’s happening right now—and what it means for your home buying journey.

The Current Denver Market: Summer 2025 Snapshot

The Good News: We’re seeing more balanced conditions than we’ve had in years. While Denver remains a strong seller’s market, the frenzied bidding wars of 2021-2022 have largely cooled.

Current Market Indicators:

• Inventory: Up 15% compared to summer 2024
• Average Days on Market: 18-25 days (vs. 8-12 days in peak years)
• Price Growth: Moderating to 3-5% annually (down from double digits)
• Interest Rates: Stabilizing in the 6.5-7% range

What This Means for You: You have more options, more time to make decisions, and less pressure to waive contingencies. It’s still competitive, but manageable with the right strategy.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Where Buyers Are Finding Value

Washington Park Area

• Average Price: $850K-$1.2M
• What’s Hot: Renovated 1960s-1980s homes with modern updates
• Buyer Tip: Look for homes with original hardwood floors and good bones—renovation potential adds value

Littleton

• Average Price: $650K-$900K
• What’s Hot: Family-friendly neighborhoods with good schools
• Buyer Tip: Consider homes that need cosmetic updates—you’ll have less competition and more negotiating power

Englewood

• Average Price: $500K-$750K
• What’s Hot: Up-and-coming area with great walkability
• Buyer Tip: This market still moves fast for well-priced homes—be ready to act

Southmoor & Hutchinson Hills

• Average Price: $700K-$950K
• What’s Hot: Mid-century homes with character and large lots
• Buyer Tip: Many homes here have renovation potential—perfect if you want to customize

Summer Buying Advantages (Yes, They Exist!)

More Inventory to Choose From

Summer traditionally brings more listings as families prefer to move when kids are out of school. You’ll have better selection than spring or fall.

Motivated Sellers

Sellers who list in summer often have timing pressures—job relocations, school deadlines, or life changes. This can work in your favor during negotiations.

True Property Assessment

You can see how homes handle Denver’s summer heat, check air conditioning systems, and evaluate outdoor spaces when they’re in full use.

Faster Closing Process

Lenders, inspectors, and other professionals are typically less backlogged in summer months.

What Buyers Need to Know About Denver’s Unique Challenges

The Inspection Reality

Many homes in our target neighborhoods (Washington Park, Littleton, Englewood) were built in the 1960s-1990s. Here’s what to expect:

• Electrical: Many homes still have original panels that need updating
• Plumbing: Cast iron and galvanized pipes are common and may need replacement
• HVAC: Original systems are often undersized for modern comfort expectations
• Roofs: Hail damage is frequent in Denver—always check roof condition

My Advice: Don’t let these issues scare you away. As both a Realtor and General Contractor, I can help you understand which problems are deal-breakers and which are manageable renovation opportunities.

The Renovation Opportunity

Here’s something most buyers don’t realize: homes that need work often present the best value in our market.

Recent Client Example: Last month, I helped buyers purchase a 1970s ranch in Hutchinson Hills for $675K. It needed a kitchen renovation and bathroom updates, but comparable move-in-ready homes were selling for $800K+. After a $75K renovation, they have a $850K+ home and saved money while getting exactly what they wanted.

Financing in Today’s Market

Interest Rate Reality: Yes, rates are higher than the historic lows of 2020-2021, but they’re still reasonable by historical standards. Don’t let rate anxiety keep you from building equity instead of paying rent.

Down Payment Options:

• Conventional: 3-5% down available for qualified buyers
• FHA: 3.5% down, great for first-time buyers
• VA: 0% down for eligible veterans
• Local Programs: Denver offers down payment assistance for qualified buyers
• 203K Loan: allows homebuyers (or current homeowners) to finance both the purchase of a home and the cost of renovations or repairs with a single loan.

Pro Tip: Get pre-approved before you start looking. In a competitive market, sellers want to see that you’re serious and qualified.

My Buyer Strategy for Summer 2025

Get Clear on Your Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves

In our market, the perfect home doesn’t exist. Focus on location, layout, and structural integrity—everything else can be changed.

Consider Homes with Renovation Potential

You’ll face less competition and can often negotiate better prices. Plus, you get to customize the home to your exact needs.

Move Quickly on the Right Home

While the market has cooled, well priced homes in desirable neighborhoods still move fast. Be prepared to make decisions within 24-48 hours.

Don’t Waive All Contingencies

You have more negotiating power now—use it. Keep your inspection contingency, especially on older homes.

Think Long-Term

Denver real estate has appreciated nearly every year since 1980. Buy the home you can afford to stay in for 5-7 years, and let time work in your favor.

The Bottom Line: Summer 2025 is a Buyer-Friendly Market

If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect” time to buy in Denver, this summer offers the best conditions we’ve seen in years. You have more choices, more time to make decisions, and more negotiating power.

The key is working with someone who understands both the real estate market and renovation potential—because in Denver, the best values often come with a little vision and some strategic updates.

Ready to Start Your Home Search?

As a Denver Realtor with construction expertise, I help buyers see potential where others see problems. Whether you’re looking for move-in ready or a diamond in the rough, I’ll guide you to the right home at the right price.