After two years of affordability pressure and hesitation, we’re finally seeing a tailwind: mortgage rates have dipped below 6% for the first time in over three years. Even small rate shifts matter in Grand County, where second-home buyers, locals, and investors all feel the impact — especially at higher price points. Lower payments don’t just improve affordability; they boost confidence. When rates soften: More buyers qualify and feel ready to act. Move-up sellers reappear, easing the “rate-lock” effect. Activity increases first — showings and contracts rise before prices adjust. Spring naturally brings momentum to the mountains, so improving rates at the same time could meaningfully increase transaction volume. What the market looks like now Grand County is no longer a “sell in a weekend” market. It’s negotiation-driven again. In 2025, average days on market hovered around 120 days for both single-family homes and condos, with winter pushing that higher. Buyers have time. Sellers need strategy. What’s selling Condos and right-sized properties are attracting attention as more attainable entry points. Luxury homes ($1.5M+) are still moving, but buyers are selective — condition, pricing, and inspection strength matter more than ever. Turnkey, well-priced homes — whether $600K or $2M — are the ones that transact. What buyers and sellers should know Pricing is hyper-local; Winter Park behaves differently than Granby or Grand Lake. Negotiations are back. Many homes are closing below list. Expect more inventory as snow melts — and more competition. The bottom line If you’re buying, preparation wins: strong pre-approval, quick execution, and smart negotiation strategies. If you’re selling, precision pricing and presentation are critical. At Snow Capped, we guide clients through both the transaction and the long-term plan — including seasonal or long-term rental strategy. Whether you’re buying, selling, or repositioning an investment, we help align pricing, timing, and performance so your property works for you in Grand County’s evolving market.

What to Expect in Spring & Summer 2026 After several years of elevated mortgage rates slowing buyer activity, the real estate market is shifting again. Lower interest rates are improving affordability and opening the door to more home buyers in Grand County — setting the stage for a busier Spring and Summer 2026. Why Lower Rates Matter Even small declines in mortgage rates can significantly reduce monthly payments and increase purchasing power. As rates ease, buyers who were previously priced out or waiting on the sidelines are re-entering the market, increasing overall transaction activity. Here’s what Snow Capped Properties anticipates for the upcoming season: Increased buyer activity this spring, driven by improved affordability More homes hitting the market, as sellers respond to renewed demand A more balanced market, with realistic pricing becoming essential Strong interest in Winter Park, Fraser, and Granby, especially for primary and long-term rental homes Modest price growth, not rapid spikes, supported by healthier fundamentals Why Timing Matters As buyer confidence grows, competition is likely to increase later in the season. Buyers who act earlier often benefit from better selection and stronger negotiating leverage. The Bottom Line - Lower mortgage rates are reigniting buyer demand and creating real opportunity in the Grand County real estate market in Spring and Summer 2026. Whether you’re buying, selling, or planning ahead, understanding this shift can help you make smarter, more confident decisions.