Its the week after Thanksgiving, and with under a month left in 2024, we can reflect on a year of change and adaptation. No matter your current living situation, this is an ideal time to appreciate how fortunate we are to live in Colorado’s Front Range. With the Rockies as our backdrop, we’re surrounded by one of the most stunning landscapes on Earth.
We’re thankful for: A home!
If you’re reading this, chances are you have a place to call home, whether you own or rent. Across Colorado and the nation, countless people remain unsheltered for various reasons. As you enjoy the comfort of a roof over your head and a warm place to sleep, remember that many do not have that same security.
Stable real estate market
In my forty-plus-year career selling homes in Boulder, Colorado, we’ve seen our share of market ups and downs. Each peak has outpaced the previous valleys, resulting in significant growth in home values over these decades. During the pandemic, Colorado’s real estate market—and much of the nation’s—remained strong, but this strength has made it challenging for first-time buyers to enter the market. The shortage of homes continues as builders work to catch up, with new construction still lagging behind population growth, a trend that began with the recession in 2007.
Low interest rates
This time last year, interest rates were in the 7–8% range—not the 3–4% we had grown used to, but certainly far better than the 16% rates of the 1980s. We can be grateful that rates have since dropped below 7%. While higher rates have certainly slowed the market, we can expect a rapid acceleration in activity once they fall again. If you’re considering buying a home, you might choose to purchase now and refinance later when rates decline.
Strong employment
Water
Snow falling in the mountains to the west provides us with one of the freshest water supplies in the country. Every time I take a drink of water, I’m thankful!
Open space
Our city’s beautiful backdrop was safeguarded by visionary city leaders of the past. More recently, Boulder residents voted to tax themselves to acquire open space, providing benefits for everyone and preserving some breathing room around us. Many communities along the Front Range have also embraced open space preservation as growth continues.
Access to recreation
They say the only thing missing along the Front Range is an ocean—and that’s probably true! We have skiing just 20 miles to the west, water skiing at Boulder Reservoir, Carter Lake, and Horsetooth Reservoir, plus incredible mountain and road biking right outside our doors. Our stunning mountain parks offer endless hiking opportunities, and bike paths now connect cities throughout the Front Range. There’s even kayaking on streams flowing down from the mountains. It’s truly a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts!
Chautauqua
I think of all the concerts, meals, and the beginning and end of countless hikes that have happened at Chautauqua. A Boulder tradition since 1898, Chautauqua offers timeless entertainment, relaxation, and stunning views of both the mountains and the city.
Flagstaff Mountain
There is nothing like a drive or bike ride up Flagstaff Mountain to bring peace to your soul. Top it off with a dinner at the Flagstaff House enjoying a sunset, city lights and a moonrise.
Downtown and the Pearl Street Mall
Nearly every out-of-town guest we’ve hosted has wanted to experience the unique charm of our downtown and Pearl Street Mall. With a rich mix of culture and a wide variety of restaurants, it’s all right at our fingertips.
Access to Denver International Airport
If you ever need a break from our paradise, DIA is just 40 minutes away, allowing you to reach almost any destination on the planet within 36 hours.
Reflect!
This Holiday Season, take a moment to relax and reflect on all that you’re grateful for, living in or near Colorado’s beautiful mountains!
Duane graduated with a business degree and a major in real estate from the University of Colorado in 1978. He has been a Realtor® in Boulder since that time. He joined RE/MAX of Boulder in 1982 and has facilitated over 2,500 transactions over his career. Living the life of a Realtor and being immersed in real estate led to the inception of his book, Realtor for Life. For questions, e-mail duaneduggan@boulderco.com, call 303.441.5611 or BoulderPropertyNetwork.com.