Key Takeaways:

• Denver’s housing inventory reached a 13-year high in July.
• Over 17,000 homes were for sale, up 30% from last year.
• The spike in listings marks a major shift toward a buyer’s market.
• This change follows Denver’s earlier reputation as a hot seller’s city.

Denver’s Real Estate Market Sees Big Changes

The real estate scene in Denver is changing fast. Not long ago, the city was one of the hottest places to buy a home. Now, it’s becoming a top spot for buyers looking for deals. This shift has a lot to do with one key thing—housing inventory. More homes are now for sale than we’ve seen in over a decade. That means more choices and better chances for buyers to find their perfect home.

What Does “Buyer’s Market” Really Mean?

The term “buyer’s market” means that there are more homes available than there are people trying to buy them. When this happens, homebuyers have the upper hand. Sellers may need to lower prices or offer extra benefits to make their homes stand out. This is the complete opposite of what Denver saw just a few years ago during the pandemic, when homes sold fast and often for more than the asking price.

Housing Inventory Hits 17,000 in July

The key sign that Denver has crossed into buyer’s market territory is the number of homes for sale. In July, Denver had around 17,000 active listings. That’s a 30% jump from the same time last year. It’s also the most homes for sale the city has had since 2011. With that many houses on the market, buyers have more room to negotiate on price, timing, and terms.

This sudden increase in homes for sale is changing how people buy and sell. It no longer feels like a rush to place an offer. Buyers, especially first-timers, can now take their time to make smarter decisions.

Why Is the Housing Inventory Growing?

There are a few reasons Denver’s housing inventory is growing. First, interest rates are still relatively high, which has slowed down the number of people who can afford to buy. Some would-be sellers are also staying put after locking in lower mortgage rates a few years ago. When fewer people buy, homes take longer to sell, adding to the number of active listings.

On top of that, new homes are being built. Builders who were busy during the housing boom are still completing projects. But since demand has dropped, those homes are now adding even more to the growing inventory.

What This Means for Homebuyers

For people looking to buy a home in Denver, this is great news. You’re no longer fighting ten other offers or pressured to make quick choices. Since it’s now a buyer’s market, you can shop around, compare homes, and even try to negotiate the price.

Sellers may be more willing to make repairs, cover closing costs, or offer other perks to close the deal. There’s also more variety available—from new builds to older homes in classic Denver neighborhoods.

How This Impacts Home Sellers

On the flip side, sellers need to be more flexible. Homes aren’t flying off the market like they used to. Pricing your home correctly and making it look its best are more important now than ever. Sellers might also need to wait longer to find the right buyer, especially if inventory continues to rise.

Sellers who try to hold out for top-dollar might miss their chance altogether. In a buyer’s market like Denver’s, being realistic matters more than ever.

Looking Ahead: Will Denver Stay a Buyer’s Market?

So, what does the road ahead look like for Denver real estate? That depends on several things, including interest rates, job growth, and consumer confidence. If more people feel confident enough to buy, the market could balance out. But for now, experts say Denver will likely stay a buyer’s market—at least through the rest of this year.

With more homes to choose from and sellers more willing to negotiate, it’s a unique time to be house hunting in the Mile High City.

The Bottom Line on Denver’s Housing Inventory

Denver’s growing housing inventory is sending a clear message: the city is no longer a seller’s playground. With a record number of homes for sale, buyers finally have the power. Whether you’re a first-time shopper or moving for work, this shift makes Denver a smarter, easier place to buy a home this year.

Still, the market changes fast. Keeping an eye on interest rates and new inventory could help you make better choices down the line. But for now, if you’re looking to buy in Denver, the timing couldn’t be better.

FAQs

Why is Denver considered a buyer’s market now?

Because the housing inventory has hit its highest level since 2011, giving buyers more options and better prices.

Is now a good time to buy a house in Denver?

Yes, with more homes for sale and less competition, buyers have more power to negotiate and find better deals.

Will Denver home prices go down further?

Prices may dip slightly due to high inventory, but a full market crash is unlikely. It depends on interest rates and future demand.

What should sellers do in a buyer’s market?

Sellers should price their homes competitively, invest in presentation, and be open to negotiating with potential buyers.