Grand Junction Real Estate

Whether you are looking into Grand Junction real estate to purchase or sell a home, you’ve come to the right place. With my 24 years of experience helping buyers and sellers, your Grand Junction real estate needs are my top priority.

A Grand Junction Real Estate Partner You Can Trust!

Partnering with Paul Aspelin gives you the local market insight you desire and customer service you should expect. I’ve spent the last two decades of my career trying to raise the bar in an industry that has continually fallen short of expectations. I have successfully helped hundreds of clients through to a successful closing. The majority of my clients come from referrals from past clients. That should provide you with the comfort you need when considering a partnership with a real estate agent. Read my reviews and recommendations.

Whether your Grand Junction real estate needs are for purchasing or building a new home, or selling your current home, I can help.

Grand Junction Real Estate Buyer Representation

The 2024 National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) settlement requires all home buyers sign a representation contract BEFORE you visit any properties. I have already been doing this with my buyer clients. I want you to fully understand the process and answer your questions before we begin looking. A buyer relationship is more important than ever. I recommend you always interview multiple agents. You can no longer just settle on the first agent you come across online or meet at an open house. These agents can be the nicest people in the world, but if they don’t have the experience to tackle every hurdle thrown your way, things may not work out in your favor.

Together we will get you into the homes you want to see while I educate you on the properties, the process, and the positioning for a successful offer. You’ve likely heard horror stories about people having a hard time securing properties in such a competitive environment. Just know, my clients don’t need to submit 10 offers before they are successful. Experience matters.

Grand Junction Real Estate Seller Representation

Coming from the Minneapolis real estate market, I’ve noticed a significant difference between the homes listed in the Grand Junction real estate market. I know how to market homes in a more competitive environment. If you speak with an agent about listing your home and they tell you everything is perfect as it is, RUN! In over two decades of successfully assisting seller clients prepare and position their homes for sale, I have never walked into a home that couldn’t benefit from the way I help sellers get the most money for their homes.

It may sound cliché’ as every agent touts their abilities to sell homes. Allow me to show you how different and rewarding it can be. Done the right way, my process can put more money in your pocket and reduce your stress. My proven process was created by assisting hundreds and hundreds of clients since 2001. I encourage you to contact other top agents in the Grand Valley. Then, allow me to explain how I work with my valued clients. You’ll be amazed at how differently I approach listing your property, always working in your best interest. I want you to be happy.

Grand Junction Real Estate Agent Referrals

Are you a real estate agent looking to refer your out-of-town or out of state clients to a REALTOR® that can get the job done? I welcome your call to discuss your client’s needs and how I can best represent them for a successful closing. Whether your clients need to sell a home in the Grand Valley or relocate to this amazing community, I will make you look like a rock star!

You can read the many reviews and recommendations I have received over the years here on my website. I pulled together client notes and paper surveys I have collected from past clients as well as online reviews. Let them explain how I do business and my character. 😊

Text/Call 612-306-9558

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE

Grand Junction Real Estate Expert
Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.
Learn more about my experience and how I serve my clients

by Paul Aspelin, REALTOR

Grand Junction, Relocating to Grand Junction, Retire in Grand Junction

Retire in Grand Junction – your grandkids and kids will thank you!

What is there to do in Grand Junction Colorado?

A retired couple contacted me from Arizona. They wanted to know “What is there to do in Grand Junction Colorado?” They retired to Scottsdale many years earlier. Their children and grandchildren visited them when they first moved there, then the visits waned. They added a swimming pool, which worked for a while. As the grandkids got older, a pool and sunshine were no longer enough. The grandkids complained “there’s nothing to do.” They realized it was time to move to a place where everyone wanted to come visit, any time of the year, not just during spring break.

They like wineries. A relative recommended they consider Palisade, Grand Junction or Fruita. And so, their research began. They reached out to me because they found this website!

Keeping and nurturing relationships during retirement is important. I get it. So is the desire to live in a mild climate surrounded by lots of amenities, healthcare, and outdoor activities. While Arizona is a beautiful state, the Scottsdale/Phoenix area is very crowded and extremely hot in the summer. Why not consider an alternate retirement community that has all four seasons and endless opportunities for fun and personal growth? Consider retiring in Grand Junction, Colorado! Or Palisade, Fruita, Clifton, Orchard Mesa, or other communities within Mesa County. Collectively known as the Grand Valley. Read my post about the weather.

I helped a retired Minnesota client sell her townhome in Minnesota and she moved to Arizona. She didn’t last long. Too hot, not enough to do. After a visit here, she wondered, “Is Grand Junction a good place to live?” She now lives on a hobby farm in Fruita! Her adult daughter moved here too, and her son and his wife come to visit a couple times a year.

Retire in Grand Junction

Paul Aspelin on the Riverfront Trail along the Colorado River

Why retire in the Grand Valley? We have access to downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, golf, tennis, and pickle ball. We have incredible hiking trails, extensive gravel/mountain/road biking opportunities, river boating and rafting, fishing, hunting, ATV trails and camping. Lots of parks and walking trails, including a zipline over the Colorado River! We are known for our fruit orchards, wineries, distilleries, and breweries. And all this is “in town.” Check out my Two-Day Itinerary post.

There are so many easy day trips from Grand Junction to incredible eye candy, hot springs, arches, canyons, lakes, mountains, resorts, public lands, and of course, Dinosaurs! So many things to do together with family and friends as you age. If you want to retire to a community where your family and friends want to visit you year-round, then the Grand Valley is your answer! Grand Junction is a basecamp with access to so much more!

More Than Just Outdoor Activities

Not only is this a beautiful and bountiful area naturally, with a fantastic climate and no humidity, there are other benefits that make Grand Junction and the surrounding communities a great place to retire to. In my opinion, here are just a few:

Low cost of living (and visiting) area
Easy access thanks to Grand Junction airport and connections via Denver and other cities
Warm weather activities
Winter weather activities
Close to diverse terrain like high desert, mountains, rivers, and lakes
Colorado Mesa University classes for 65+ and you can entice the grandkids to enroll
Many things to do right in Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade
Check out my day trips from Grand Junction post for ideas on what’s nearby that your kids and grandchildren will enjoy
Colorado is more centralized in the US compared to the SE like Florida – allowing you to reach so much more that’s only a day’s drive away

Grand Junction Living and Hosting Visitors

Snowshoeing on the Grand Mesa

Find a retirement home that’s convenient and easy to get to and your friends and family will want to come to visit you all year round!

It’s how they perceive the location that determines if they come visit. Grand Junction always has something going on for all ages and abilities!

When you purchase a home here, try to get an extra bedroom or two for visitors. It will encourage them to visit if they know they can save money by not needing to pay for a hotel. Having them stay with you gives you more opportunities to connect and share time with them.

We’ve hosted friends and family several times since we moved here. Based on their desires, we never run out of things to do or show them. Some have no interest in hiking, and that’s ok. We help our visitors adjust to the elevation before we go even higher to places like the Grand Mesa, Ouray, or Telluride. Some of our visitors fly right into GJT airport while others choose to fly into Denver and drive up and over the mountains to reach us. If they need one, car rentals are super easy at the Grand Junction airport.

We make sure we give them a list of suggested items to pack or have extras on hand like stainless steel water bottles, hats, sunscreen, and vitamin C (for high elevation days).

As our friends and family come to visit and get to know the area better, we hope someday they too might choose to move to Grand Junction like we did!

Consider starting new traditions in your new location. Invite everyone to come to you for a holiday spent at a mountain resort or discovering our nearby national parks! Make new memories. The opportunities are truly endless in Mesa County and beyond!

If you are considering a move and would like a tour of the Grand Valley, give me a call. I have several articles on this website about retiring in Grand Junction and things to do in the area. Look around the site and consider me your Grand Junction retirement real estate expert!

Move to Grand Junction, we’re waiting for you!

Text/Call me at 612-306-9558

Contact me directly regarding non-MLS listings.

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Licensed in Colorado

Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.
Learn more about my real estate experience and how I serve my clients

by Paul Aspelin, REALTOR

Grand Junction, Grand Junction Real Estate, Local or Nearby Attractions, Relocating to Grand Junction

Why Move to Grand Junction?

Property Tax Programs for Colorado Seniors

For seniors who live in Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and the entire state of Colorado, navigating the intricacies of property taxes can be a significant concern. The good news is that there are property tax programs for Colorado seniors to alleviate some of the financial pressures of homeownership.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into these programs, and how they can help older residents manage their property tax burdens. Although I personally still have some time before turning 65, these programs were some things my wife and I investigated when considering our move to Grand Junction, CO.

I also have my Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation. It shows that as a REALTOR® I am able to meet the special needs of maturing Americans when selling, buying, relocating, or refinancing residential or investment properties. By earning the SRES® designation, I am prepared to serve mature clients with the best options and information for them to make life-changing decisions.

Property Tax Relief Programs for Colorado Seniors

Colorado offers several property tax relief programs tailored to its senior citizens. These programs provide much-needed financial support to seniors who may be struggling with property tax payments.

The Senior Homestead Exemption

The Senior Homestead Exemption is one of the most advantageous property tax programs for Colorado seniors. This program allows homeowners aged 65 or older to exempt 50% of the first $200,000 from the actual value of their primary residence. However, there are also some eligibility requirements:

The qualifying senior must be at least 65 years of age as of January 1 of the year of application.
The qualifying senior must occupy the property as his or her primary residence and be the owner of record and must have done so for at least ten consecutive years prior to January 1 of the tax year. Limited exceptions to the ownership and occupancy requirements are detailed in the qualifications section of the application.

This property tax relief initiative significantly eases the burden for seniors.

Property Tax Deferral for Grand Junction Seniors

Seniors who live in Grand Junction and are facing financial challenges can benefit from the Property Tax Deferral program, specifically designed for their needs. This initiative enables homeowners over the age of 65 to defer payment of their property taxes until the property is sold or ownership is transferred.

Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption

While not exclusive to seniors, the Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption is an essential program to mention, as it can be of great interest to older veterans and Gold Star Spouses. Disabled veterans aged 65 or older may be eligible for property tax exemptions, adding to the available property tax relief programs.

Senior Citizens and Disabled Property Tax Exemption in Grand Junction

Colorado offers a Senior Citizens and Disabled Property Tax Exemption program, further tailored to the state’s older residents. Eligible seniors aged 65 or older, who have owned and resided in their homes for ten consecutive years can benefit from this program, providing significant property tax relief.

Social and Community Benefits for Grand Junction, Colorado Seniors

Aside from property tax programs, it’s important to mention the social and community benefits that make Colorado a desirable place for seniors to retire. Many Colorado communities provide services, discounts, and programs specifically designed for older residents, fostering a sense of belonging and support during their retirement years.

For Colorado seniors, understanding and taking advantage of property tax programs tailored to their needs is crucial. The state’s property tax relief programs, including the Senior Homestead Exemption, Property Tax Deferral, Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption, and the Senior Citizens and Disabled Property Tax Exemption, can significantly reduce property tax burdens.

Colorado’s commitment to its older citizens extends beyond property tax programs, with numerous social and community benefits that enhance the retirement experience. By utilizing these property tax programs and enjoying the supportive community environment, Colorado seniors living in Grand Junction can make the most of their retirement years. As always, please consult with a CPA or qualified Tax Consultant before making any tax related decisions. Use the links provided to read the most current information about property taxes in Colorado.

Call/text me with your questions! I can help access the MARKET VALUE of your Mesa County property.

612-306-9558

Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Serving Mesa County

by Paul Aspelin, REALTOR

Grand Junction, Local or Nearby Attractions, Retire in Grand Junction

Why Choose to Retire in Grand Junction Colorado?

Why Choose to Retire in Grand Junction?

11 Compelling Reasons Why People Choose to Retire in Grand Junction, Colorado by Paul Aspelin, Realtor®

Grand Junction, Colorado, has emerged as a favored retirement destination for various compelling reasons. Many of these apply to people in all stages of life. And it’s not just about moving to Grand Junction, but Fruita and Palisade are fantastic destinations as well as other cities in Mesa County. Check out the whole Grand Valley area.

Before I moved here with my wife, we read about retiring in Grand Junction in a Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine she picked up at the airport. We wanted to learn all about Grand Junction retirement options and benefits.

Did you know that the majority of the population in Mesa County is retirement age? Our median household income and per capita income has been rising since 2017. Mesa County is growing thanks to people migrating here from other states or other regions in Colorado. According to Visit Grand Junction, the number one thing visitors say about Grand Junction is “Your community is so friendly”. Yay! Here’s more to love…

1. Scenic Beauty

Grand Junction boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, including the Colorado National Monument, the Grand Mesa, the Book Cliff mountains and the Colorado River. Its stunning scenery and mild climate create an irresistible lure for retirees. Spring comes early and fall is long, so there’s plenty of time to be outdoors in this dry climate.

2. Abundance of Outdoor Activities

The Grand Valley offers retirees an array of outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, golfing, and more. This ensures an active and fulfilling lifestyle in retirement.

We are told, when Grand Junction has a mild winter, people can golf year-round. You can search online to find the numerous bike shops that rent cruiser bikes and e-bikes. Be sure to walk or ride on the Riverfront Trail that goes from Fruita, through Grand Junction and on to Palisade!

Talbott's Cider Co in Palisade, CO showing variety of hard ciders

I took this picture at Talbott’s Cider Co in Palisade, CO – shows a variety of hard ciders. A must stop on the Fruit and Wine Byway in Palisade

3. Wine Country

Located in the heart of Colorado’s wine country, Grand Junction and Palisade boast 35+ wineries and vineyards, making it an ideal place for retirees who appreciate wine tasting and cultural experiences.

Be sure to investigate the wineries first and choose a winery that offers the type of wine you like. Some specialize in dry wine, fruit wines and wine made from honey!

The Colorado Mountain Wine Fest happens annually in September at Riverbend Park in Palisade. The Colorado Mountain Winefest is not just an event for wine enthusiasts; it’s a celebration of community, cultivation, and the pursuit of excellence in winemaking.

There are many distilleries too offering specialty spirits and hard cider, like Talbott’s Farm Market and Tap Room in Palisade located on the scenic Fruit and Wine Byway.

4. Mild Climate

With over 300 days of sunshine annually, Grand Junction enjoys a mild climate, particularly attractive to those seeking to escape harsh winter weather.

I love the low humidity here in the high desert area of Colorado. I wasn’t expecting what a difference it feels like to have low humidity. Thankfully, it makes being outdoors so much more enjoyable year-round. Great for a Grand Junction retirement!

In fact, it was a 90 degree August day we moved our daughter into her CMU dorm room and we didn’t need to change clothes because we didn’t get that “sticky” feeling! It was eye-opening. However, due to the heat, we did experience one of our new Target purchases melting in the bed of our truck. That was unexpected too!

Read my post about Grand Junction Weather that includes the average high and low temps by month.

5. Affordable Living

Compared to larger cities in Colorado, especially on the front range (Ft. Collins, Boulder, Denver, Colorado Springs area), Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade offer a more affordable cost of living. Housing, utilities, and other expenses are budget-friendly. Read my post about Property Tax savings for seniors and others. They are so much lower here than what we experienced in Minnesota!

I can set you up on an MLS search so you can compare different areas to live within the Grand Valley. I have especially noticed a lower cost for groceries and fresh produce in particular. When you come visit, walk through a City Market and see how it compares to your local grocery store prices.

Luckily for us, Palisade, Grand Junction and Fruita all have wonder Farmers Markets that run during the summer months, amazing produce! And there’s a property tax benefit for those 65+ that is the subject of another post on this website, so look for that!

6. Access to Quality Healthcare

Grand Junction is home to renowned healthcare facilities, including St. Mary’s Medical Center and Community Hospital, ensuring retirees have access to quality healthcare. There is also a hospital in Fruita. St. Mary’s is a regional hospital serving communities 1-2 hours away. Healthcare is Grand Junction’s largest industry, government and Colorado Mesa University are also larger employers in this region.

7. Cultural Vibrancy

Grand Junction offers a vibrant cultural scene with music festivals, art exhibitions, theaters and local events, providing retirees with entertainment and opportunities for engagement. Many locations offer reduced ticket fees. Mesa County Libraries support cultural programs too. Check out my post about Mesa County Libraries.

8. Welcoming Community

The friendly and welcoming community in Grand Junction fosters a strong sense of belonging and connection for retirees. There are many clubs and organizations you can consider, like the Friends of Mesa County Libraries. And it’s easy to fly here thanks to the Grand Junction airport. Read about my airport experience!

Took this photo on our last trip to Arches National Park. We brought our visiting relatives for a tour.

9. Proximity to National Parks

Grand Junction is close to national parks like Arches and Canyonlands in Utah, making it an excellent base for exploring the great outdoors during retirement.

Fun fact, if you want to know how far you are from the Utah border, simply look at the street signs. 25 Mile Road means you are 25 miles from the border. Sorry about the crazy half mile roads like 24 1/2 mile. Unfortunately, I’m not sure why they weren’t more creative when naming the roads around here. Particularly, the really weird ones like F 3/4 road. But I’ll admit, when we visit our friend off of “F ‘n three fourths” we do chuckle saying it out loud.

Sorry to get sidetracked. Moab, Utah is about 1.5 hours away, 90 miles and is a great base for going into Canyonlands or Arches and the local state parks. Additionally, you need to schedule a Timed-Entry into Arches, so visit their website first to make a reservation before you drive there. Ask me about tips for that too!

10. Low Crime Rate

Grand Junction maintains a relatively low crime rate, contributing to retirees’ sense of safety and security. You can learn more by contacting the Grand Junction Police Department directly.

11. Lifelong Learning Opportunities

Retirees in Grand Junction can continue their education through classes at Colorado Mesa University. You can gain access to libraries and cultural institutions. Learn about the CMU Golden Scholars program for persons 60 years of age and over to take courses at a discounted rate without the stress of earning a grade. Learn something new!

Learn more “things to do” in Grand Junction, Colorado on the Visit Grand Junction website. Read what I learned after the first three months of living in Grand Junction, CO. It’s the post with the toilet paper image! And, great for any age, read my experience and tips on the Top Day Trips from Grand Junction, with photos!

In summary, the combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, affordable living, and a welcoming community positions Grand Junction as an appealing destination for retirees. Especially those seeking a high quality of life and an active retirement. Therefore, prospective retirees should conduct thorough research and visit the area to ensure it aligns with their specific preferences and needs. Ask me about planning a Grand Junction retirement!

Learn more on my Get Started page.

Text/Call me with your questions! 612-306-9558

Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Licensed in Colorado and Minnesota

by Paul Aspelin, REALTOR

More to Know, Relocating to Grand Junction

How do I Establish Residency in Colorado?

Here are 11 Essential Steps for to Establish residency in Colorado, specifically in Grand Junction. I know what it’s like to move from another state. Heck, I moved across the country and have some advice on that too. Ask me about our road trip to Colorado from Minnesota and what “leaked” out of our 20′ U-Haul truck.

When you’re planning to establish residency in Colorado, it’s crucial to navigate through a series of steps and factors. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you successfully claim residency when it’s your turn to move to Grand Junction, Fruita or Palisade:

1. Find Your Grand Junction or Grand Valley Home

Our U-Haul Moving Truck coming to Colorado

The initial step is securing a place to live in Grand Junction, Colorado, whether it’s a rented apartment, house, or your own property. Your physical address in the city is a vital element in substantiating your residency. We started out renting so we could look for our next property at our own pace vs house hunting from a distance. I can set you up on an MLS search and send you listings that meet your criteria. The Grand Valley offers a very diverse selection of residential real estate property. Learn more on my Get Started page.

2. Update Your Driver’s License

Within 30 days of your move to Colorado, update your driver’s license with the Colorado Department of Revenue’s Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). To establish Colorado residency, head to our local DMV office in downtown Grand Junction on Spruce Street to complete the necessary paperwork, and pay the required fees. Bring your checkbook if you want to avoid the extra 3% fee for paying by credit card. Oh, and go online to make your appointment right away. We had to wait 2 weeks to get an appointment.

3. Register to Vote

To solidify your residency in Colorado, register to vote in Grand Junction via the Colorado Secretary of State website. Cities in the Grand Valley I serve are in Mesa County. You can register to vote online or have them mail you a paper form. Now I will say, it seemed like we got registered automatically after getting our Colorado driver’s licenses. We got a letter in the mail a week after our visit to the DMV saying we were registered to vote.

4. Change Your Vehicle Registration

Check out my custom license plate!

If you own a vehicle, modify its registration to Colorado and obtain Colorado license plates through the DMV. Mesa County Motor Vehicle Department website. Colorado residents can get a $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass when registering a car, motorcycle, recreation vehicle or light truck through the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Also known as the Colorado State Parks pass. The parks pass goes with the vehicle, not the individual. It’s a sticker on your license plate. Learn more about the parks pass. Colorado State Park pass is normally $80/year, so buying it with your registration is quite a savings!

5. Establish Financial Connections

Another step in establishing Colorado residency is to open a bank account in Mesa County and ensure your mailing address aligns with your new residence. Update your utility bills, insurance, and other financial documents to reflect your Grand Junction address. I recommend you first update the billing address on your credit card before you start changing other addresses because if you need to pay for something regarding your address change with a credit card, it won’t process if the addresses don’t match. There are a lot of wonderful local banks in the area. Ask me how I like the community focused bank we chose.

6. Utilize Local Services

Start using local services, such as healthcare providers, dentists, and other professionals, to build local connections. If you are a business owner or self-employed, consider the Chamber of Commerce in Grand Junction, Fruita or Palisade. There are mentor programs for new residents who work from home.

7. Notify Your Employer

If you’re relocating to Grand Junction, CO for work, inform your employer about your new address and Colorado residency. They may need to adjust your tax withholdings accordingly. I highly recommend you consult with a tax advisor prior to your move. Colorado has a very competitive income tax rate among other tax benefits.

8. File State Taxes

After establishing residency in Colorado, remember to file your state income taxes in Colorado and the state you moved from in the year you moved. Again, for your first year here, consult with a tax advisor to make sure you know all of the local tax benefits of living in Mesa County, Colorado.

9. Engage in the Community

Show your commitment to the community by getting involved in local clubs, attending community events, and engaging with your neighbors. There are so many things going on in the Grand Valley. Seek out websites, social media accounts like Facebook and Instagram feeds to see what’s going on. We were up on the Grand Mesa one fall weekend and stumbled upon an Octoberfest celebration at Powderhorn Ski Resort. It was an unexpected surprise. We marked our calendars to watch for it next year so we can make plans to attend again. The Mesa is one of the best places to be to see fall colors. And they change earlier than here in the valley.

10. Maintain Records

Keeping records of your residency-establishing activities is crucial. Store copies of bills, rental agreements, voter registration documents, and other pertinent records as proof of residency.

11. Seek Professional Advice

Depending on your specific situation, it’s wise to consult with legal or tax professionals to ensure you meet all the requirements for establishing residency. My wife interviewed a local attorney to help establish a new business in Colorado and register her marketing company as a foreign entity so she could keep her official business registration in Minnesota but work here in Colorado and pay the much lower Colorado income tax rate vs Minnesota income tax rate. Ask me about moving your business here, especially if you are self-employed.

It’s worth noting that the process of establishing residency can differ based on individual circumstances and state-specific requirements. For the most accurate and up-to-date guidelines, always consult the relevant state and local authorities.

Let me know what questions you have. We are happy to share our experience of moving to Grand Junction and how we have worked through the above list to establish residency in Colorado.