What awaits home buyers and sellers in 2023? The pandemic boom may be over, but it’s important to understand that the housing market isn’t about to collapse.
As with many hotspots over the past few years, Colorado home prices have skyrocketed. This path cannot go on forever, especially now that mortgage rates are much higher than they were throughout 2021 and the first half of 2022. Although prices may drop slightly below current levels, they will not fall; stocks of housing in Colorado are still too low.
For buyers who can afford the mortgage rates (or better yet, pay with all the cash), 2023 is the time to use their leverage. Don’t be afraid to offer below the asking price and don’t be afraid to ask for concessions to see if the seller is motivated enough to cover some of your closing costs.
For sellers who are ready to move, make sure you keep an eye on the pulse of your local market. For example, at the beginning of the year, sellers in Adams and Arapahoe counties faced overstocking, causing prices to drop 5 percent. However, competition was still fierce in Larimer County, and open houses attracted huge crowds of shoppers. Work with your agent to understand what’s happening in your area, not just the state as a whole.