The Power Is Shifting to Denver Buyers
For the first time since pre-pandemic, Denver Metro's housing market is tilting meaningfully toward buyers. The numbers don't lie — and they're telling a story that every prospective homebuyer in the metro area needs to hear.
According to Corcoran Perry & Co.'s February 2026 market report, the Denver Metro market has fundamentally changed character. Buyers are more selective, inventory is up, and the frantic pace of 2021-2023 is firmly in the rearview mirror.
The Data That Matters
Inventory is up 10% year-over-year. With 8,203 active listings and new listings jumping 153% month-over-month in January, there's real selection for the first time in years. This translates to roughly 18 weeks of supply — well above the 8-12 weeks that characterized the seller's market of recent years.
Homes are taking longer to sell. Median days on market hit 56 in January, up from 41 a year ago. This extra time benefits buyers who want to conduct thorough due diligence without the pressure of competing offers arriving within hours.
Price growth has stalled. The median closed price of $569,000 is actually down 1% year-over-year — the first annual decline in metro Denver since the brief COVID correction in 2020.
Neighborhood Spotlight: Where to Look
Best Value (Under $450K)
- Aurora (East): Condos and townhomes starting in the low $300s with improving infrastructure and transit access
- Thornton / Northglenn: Established neighborhoods with ranch-style homes at $380K-$430K
- Commerce City: Rapid development with new construction options under $400K
Strong Mid-Range (Under $600K)
- Arvada / Wheat Ridge: Charming older neighborhoods with renovation potential and proximity to downtown
- Lakewood: Diverse housing stock with good school options and mountain views
- Centennial / Littleton: Family-friendly suburbs with stable values and established amenities
Luxury Deals
- Cherry Creek / Wash Park: High-end properties sitting longer, creating negotiation opportunities
- Highlands / LoHi: New construction condos with builder incentives and closing cost credits
Smart Buyer Strategies for This Market
Use Time to Your Advantage
With homes sitting longer, you no longer need to rush decisions. Schedule second showings. Get thorough inspections. Review HOA financials carefully. The market is giving you permission to be diligent.
Negotiate Aggressively (But Fairly)
Homes listed for 30+ days are prime negotiation targets. Consider:
- Offering 3-5% below list price on properties with extended market time
- Requesting seller-paid closing costs (typically 2-3% of purchase price)
- Including inspection and appraisal contingencies — sellers are accepting these again
- Asking for rate buydowns where the seller contributes to reducing your interest rate
Consider New Construction
Builders across the metro — from Lennar and KB Home to local builders — are offering significant incentives: rate buydowns, closing cost credits, and design upgrades. These incentives often aren't advertised publicly, so work with a lender who has builder relationships.
What Could Change This Dynamic?
This buyer-friendly window won't last forever. Several factors could tighten the market again:
- Rate drops below 5.5%: A significant rate decline would bring sidelined buyers flooding back
- Spring seasonal demand: April through June traditionally sees the most buyer activity
- Population growth: Colorado continues to attract transplants from higher-cost coastal markets
Act With Confidence, Not Urgency
The best approach in today's Denver market is informed confidence. Get pre-approved so you know your exact budget. Identify your target neighborhoods. Then move deliberately when the right home appears at the right price.
Get pre-approved with Cedar Home Loans — we'll help you understand your full buying power and navigate Denver's shifting market with expertise.
