Tag Archive for: Realty ONE Group Western Slope

Relocating to Grand Junction is all about Location

It’s All About LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

I am amazed at the number of unrepresented home buyers that are relocating to Grand Junction who attend open houses. These buyers come into town for a long weekend to get a feel for the area. They casually attend open houses to gauge the real estate market.

It’s no secret that thousands of people each year are considering relocating to Grand Junction with all the recent national press and accolades the Grand Valley has received. Grand Junction has become a hotbed for attracting home buyers and retirees from all over the country. What’s not to like? A mild climate with four seasons and unlimited access to outdoor activities. Plus, views that will continue to amaze you for years to come. Moving to Grand Junction isn’t about buying a home, it’s about experiencing a new lifestyle.

I AM Your Grand Junction Relocation Guide

Your Grand Junction Relocation Guide is Paul Aspelin. Here he is standing in front of his Toyota TacomaIf you are going to take the time to plan an exploration trip to see if relocating to Grand Junction is in your future, just call me! Whether by plane or car, allow me to make the most of your time while you visit. I understand many of you are early in your decision-making process. Still, “thinking about it” is all part of the natural process. I get it.

Read my post about being your personal Grand Junction Relocation Guide!

I am truly excited to show off this valley and a few homes along the way. I am happy to give people an afternoon or entire day of my time for them to decide if Grand Junction is right for them. No strings attached. I understand that location, location, location is at the heart of every home purchase, but have you ever thought about the true meaning of repeating that word three times?

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Grand Junction Airport

Flying over Grand Junction – read about our Grand Junction Airport Experience

The first “location” refers to the city itself, or in our case, the entire Grand Valley. Does the city have the amenities you need? Where is the nearest grocery store? How about a Target, Best Buy, or local farm to table dining options? How far away is the nearest airport? Does it have a quaint downtown area? Is there a sense of community? Do I feel safe? The questions differ for everyone, but the process remains the same. Everyone starts from a 10,000 ft point of view.

The second location is filtered down one more segment to which part of the broader area interests you? Will you end up relocating to Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade, Whitewater, Glade Park or up on the Mesa? Some of this will be dependent on the price range you are considering, but not always. Do you want to be able to walk to downtown? Are certain schools important to you? Do you have a need for some elbow room and acreage? Is a view important? Would you like to walk out your back door and be on world class trails within minutes? Is the distance to your work something to take into consideration? Where are the new construction developments in the area? Everyone has different wants and needs.

Finally, the third location narrows things down to neighborhoods and the actual home location within those neighborhoods. How does it feel when you first drive down the street? Are yards well taken care of or do they look like everyone is having a year-round yard sale? Is there a large undeveloped parcel behind the neighborhood that offers space now, but in the future is designated to be a rock quarry? Are you looking for newer homes or one with a more historic feel?

These are just some of things people relocating to Grand Junction take into consideration while they process if a move is right for them.

Why choose to Retire in Grand Junction post by Paul Aspelin

Your Grand Junction Relocation Guide

Now, imagine if you had a guide to help narrow things down. A guide who could also give you insight into what people do in their free time? From farmers markets to summer concerts in Los Colonias, or best day trips from Grand Junction or tips on where your best chance to see bighorn sheep might be? There is so much more to understanding an area than aimlessly driving around and attending a few open houses.

I understand the thirst for knowledge and understanding an area before moving. I tell people all the time that there is no more obsessive Googler than someone looking to relocate. I know, I was one of them for two years before I moved which is also why I started this blog. Let me make the most of your time while you are here. Even an afternoon together can set you off in the right direction to explore on your own the next day.

You may have wished you had a friend in the area to show you around, now you do. Call/text me with confidence 612-306-9558. Want to move to Colorado now?

You might also enjoy my post called Retire in Grand Junction- your kids and grandkids will thank you and What I Learned After Living Here for 3 Months. Things to do in Grand Junction: Easy Hikes, oh, and the one called What It’s Really Like Driving I-70!

MOVE2GJ with Paul Aspelin

Check out my custom license plate!

Move to Grand Junction… we’ve been waiting for you!

Text/Call 612-306-9558

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE

I am your personal Grand Junction Relocation Guide
Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.
Learn more about my experience and how I serve my clients 

© 2025 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR® MovetoGrandJunction.com Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

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Redlands 360 Master Plan Map | Easter Hill

Redlands 360 Master Plan Map

This map outlines the planned community for Redlands 360. The 600 acres of land encompassing this spectacular master planned community has long been renowned as a community gem. The 360-degree views of everything the Grand Valley offers are on full display.

This post is meant to accompany my previous post about Redlands 360 and the Easter Hill and Canyon Rim new home developments.  That post includes more details and history about the Redlands 360 planned community and the new construction opportunities.

I have helped buyers build a beautiful home in Easter Hill and I would love to walk you through the new construction process too. I’ve been helping buyers with new construction since 2001. This is an amazing new area to build your dream home. Please drive out here to see it in person! Learn about the future development from the Redlands 360 Master Plan Map below.

A second option you might consider when building a new home is the Soaring Eagle neighborhood. It’s also near the Colorado National Monument and offers spectacular views of Independence Monument. It’s close to more popular trailheads like the Monument Canyon Trail where you are likely to see Bighorn Sheep! Ask me about the club house for residents in Soaring Eagle!

Redlands 360 Master Plan Map

Redlands 360 Master Plan Map

Easter Hill Trailhead

Here’s a view from on top of a trail looking down to the Easter Hill trailhead parking lot and the Easter Hill neighborhood.

Easter Hill Trailhead Parking Lot and neighborhood

If you have the All Trails app, look up Water Towers Mountain Bike Loop. All Trails describes the trail by saying it “incorporates a couple of clear, open hillsides which are ribboned with crisscrossing paths carved into the rock and earth, perfect for mountain biking.” And I would add hiking too. We saw many people walking their dogs while we were on the trail near Easter Hill. Crisscrossing is an excellent description. Look at this map from All Trails.

Water Towers Mountain Bike Loop Map from All Trails

If you’d like to learn more about Redland 360, Easter Hill, Canyon Rim, or Soaring Eagle new home developments, text or call me at 612-306-9558. I’d like to show you around!

Two other posts you might enjoy Grand Junction Golf Courses and Buying a Home in Grand Junction.

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 

© 2025 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®
MovetoGrandJunction.com
Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

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Miracle Rock in Glade Park – Grand Junction

I Googled “Miracle Rock in Glade Park” after learning about it from an email I received from the Visit Grand Junction website. I researched Miracle Rock in Glade Park and the Potholes on the Little Delores River near the falls. We like to investigate new trails ahead of time to see what challenges we might be in for. This one was better than expected.

From Grand Junction, Miracle Rock in Glade Park is accessible from Monument Road. Basically, you enter the Colorado National Monument at the east entrance in Grand Junction and follow that a few miles into the park and then turn left when you see the sign for the Glade Park Store.

Get notifications about new posts and watch my short videos on my Facebook page called Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction.

Driving up the Colorado National Monument to Glade Park

Living in Glade Park

Glade Park is a popular place to live for ranchers and farmers, people looking for a little privacy and space for themselves. Many are off-the-grid types who value independence. The Glade Park Store is an icon because I think it’s the only commercial building in Glade Park, besides the Post Office. There are many homesteads of all shapes and sizes with astounding views and natural beauty in every direction.

Glade Park sits at about 6,700’ elevation, so 2,000’ above the Grand Valley. That additional elevation makes a difference. We did our hike in the last week of December. The temps were in the mid-40’s for our hike (very comfortable) and there was about 3-6” of snow on the ground. Grand Junction didn’t have any snow because it melts pretty much the same day it snows. Read more about Grand Junction weather.

Learn more about living in Glade Park at https://glade-park.com

Miracle Rock Hike

Cairns rock piles along the trail to mark the way

Once you leave the Colorado National Monument you travel on a gravel road that eventually turns into soft red dirt. There’s a small parking lot and pit toilets at the entrance to the Miracle Rock trailhead as well as a picnic area with several tables. The All Trails hiking app we use called it a moderate trail, but we thought it was pretty easy. It’s about 1 mile out and back. Uphill to Miracle Rock, then downhill the whole way back.

There are cairns (pronounced CARE-Ns), which are piles of rocks, to mark the trails. Reviews said it was easy to miss them and get off the trail. Luckily when we went, there was snow on the ground so the tracks from the people before us led the way. We did see one other hiker during our one-hour hike. We sat at the base of the rock to soak it all in and have a snack before heading back.

Miracle Rock in Glade Park is amazing. The massive rock looks like it’s teetering and could tumble anytime. It’s on the edge of a cliff and we looked out into a beautiful canyon. We were so high up we looked over the Colorado National Monument and could clearly see the Book Cliff Mountains that surround the Grand Valley.

Miracle Rock in Glade Park

Grand Junction Hiking Tip

Here’s a hiking tip for you. Plan some of your hikes for late afternoon into dusk or sunset instead of midday. Because of heavy fog, we didn’t set out until about 2pm. On our way back the sky was pink, and the views were amazing as you can see from our photos.

Little Delores Falls and Potholes

Little Delores Falls at dusk

After the Miracle Rock hike, we went a little further down the same road to the Little Delores Falls area.  The Little Dolores Falls comprise of two tumbling waterfalls with large pools between them that locals call “the Potholes.” Because the water flows pretty much year-round through this stunning gorge, we thought it was worth checking out in December. The potholes were frozen, but the falls were running.

There was a little more snow in this area, so we were glad to have our 4×4 Toyota Tacoma (the locals call them “tacos”) so we didn’t get stuck.  Evidently, people swim here in the summer, but it was a cliff down to the water, so not sure how they get in the river. And there’s a warning sign about dangerous swift currents. Personally, I wouldn’t risk it.  Seeing it from above was just fine for us!

The hike was an easy half-mile round trip with a very wide trail. It was snow covered but we could see it was a gravel trail and slickrock in some places. Very easy and beautiful. It’s so peaceful to hear the water falling over the rocky edge of the river. We didn’t see anyone else during this hike.

What we learned during our afternoon hike

  1. We packed enough water and snacks, but that’s all we took. We have a small hiking backpack with essentials like toilet paper, mini first-aid kit, matches and bear spray. We realized that even though it was a short hike, we should plan for things to not go according plan. We should have brought the backpack with supplies, hoping we wouldn’t need them.
  2. Another reason to have the backpack is because it will hold our water bottles, therefore, we can use both hands to steady ourselves as we climb up narrow rocky areas. See my post about water bottles, which ones we like, and where we got them.
  3. Because we went in the late afternoon, next time we will add our headlamp or a flashlight to our hiking backpack. I wouldn’t want to hold my phone out with the flashlight app if it got dark because I wouldn’t want to drop it and it might run out of batteries if we were really lost.
  4. We should plan more hikes where we come home at dusk. The sky was so beautiful. It was an unexpected treat on our way home.
  5. I was thankful that Michelle downloaded the trail map from the All Trails app before we left because there wasn’t any cell service up there. We knew we were on the trail because we could use the download of the trail. It really came in handy at the trailhead as it wasn’t obvious where the trail actually started because the ground was covered in snow and the trail was very narrow through trees and rocks. You can download sections of Google Maps too so you’ll have it when you don’t have cell service.

Book Cliff Mountains lit up by the setting sun

Friends Visiting the Grand Valley

Overall, I recommend going on afternoon hikes and we will definitely add these two to our list of places to show our friends and family when they come to visit. We are accumulating quite a list of places to see and things to do. Since most of our visitors come from lower elevations, we like sticking to short hikes without too much elevation gain. I want them to enjoy their visit, not get worn out! We have various activities to keep visitors happy while here. Ask me about my experience with whiskey tasting, winery tours and tastings and local breweries!

Because we tell stories to our friends about our numerous adventures, and the proximity to diverse options, we think some of them are actually considering moving to Grand Junction too!

If you are visiting or considering a move to Grand Junction, reach out to me. I’d be happy to give you a tour of the area and explain the different areas and housing options. And if you are serious about moving to the area, I can schedule a few property showings so you can experience what it might feel like to live here in the Grand Valley.

Read my post where I explain what I learned after the first three months of living in Grand Junction. Hint, the post has a photo of toilet paper in our car, which is helpful information to know when hiking anywhere in Colorado!

Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction!

Miracle Rock in Glade Park with Paul Aspelin

Follow my Facebook page called Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction

Text/Call 612-306-9558

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE

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

© 2025 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®. MovetoGrandJunction.com Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

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Pros and Cons of Offers with Contingencies

Pros and Cons of Offers with Contingencies

Buying a home is a monumental step in life, and crafting the right offer can mean the difference between sealing the deal or losing out. One tactic that buyers often consider is writing an offer contingent on the sale of their current home. This type of contingent offer to purchase a home includes specific conditions regarding the sale, and ultimately the closing, of your home.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of offers with contingencies. Keep in mind that as a buyer, you may choose a different strategy if there are no other offers on the house you like, especially if it’s been on the market for a while, versus when it’s new on the market and there are multiple offers on the house you want to buy.

Be sure to read through to the end where I have some bonus tips!

What is a Contingent Offer?

A contingent offer means that the buyer is only obligated to proceed with the purchase if certain conditions (contingencies) are satisfied. These conditions typically protect the buyer and ensure that they can back out of the deal without penalty if their circumstances change or the conditions aren’t met. The majority of home purchases have some type of contingency attached to them, even cash offers. But not all contingencies in real estate are viewed the same.

Common contingencies include:

Financing Contingency: The offer is contingent on the buyer securing a mortgage loan.

Inspection Contingency: The home must pass a professional home inspection and/or testing for things like Radon, mold etc.

Appraisal Contingency: The property must appraise for at least the agreed upon purchase price.

Successful Home Closing Contingency: As a buyer, the home you are selling already has an offer on it and you are waiting for it to successfully close.

Pros of Writing Offers with Contingencies

Protects the buyer’s interests

  • The primary advantage of including contingencies in an offer is that it provides a safety net for the buyer. If unforeseen issues arise, such as difficulty in obtaining financing or problems uncovered during a home inspection, the buyer can withdraw without losing their earnest money deposit. This protection ensures that buyers aren’t forced into a deal that could jeopardize their financial stability.

Allows time for necessary steps

  • A contingent offer gives buyers time to resolve critical issues, such as selling their current home or securing a mortgage. For example, if a buyer’s funds are tied up in their existing property, a home sale contingency allows them to align the timing of the sale and purchase without financial strain.

Certain contingencies can provide leverage in negotiations

  • If the inspection reveals minor issues, the buyer can request repairs or a reduction in price or threaten to walk away. Sellers may be willing to make concessions to keep the deal alive, especially in a buyer’s market, or at higher price points where demand is lower.

Minimizes financial risk

  • Without contingencies, buyers might be legally obligated to complete the purchase, even if circumstances change. For instance, if a buyer fails to secure financing and lacks a financing contingency, they could forfeit their earnest money or face legal action.

Contingencies significantly reduce this risk

  • First-time buyers often rely on contingencies to navigate the complex home-buying process. With contingencies in place, they can proceed with confidence, knowing they have room to address unforeseen challenges without severe consequences.

Cons of Writing Contingencies in Offers

Reduces Appeal to Sellers

  • From the seller’s perspective, contingencies add uncertainty to the transaction. Any type of contingency signals that the deal may fall through if the conditions aren’t met, making it less attractive than a non-contingent or cash offer. In competitive markets, where multiple offers are common, sellers are likely to favor offers with fewer strings (contingencies) attached. I’ve got plenty of stories I can share about this!

Risk of Losing the Property

  • In hot real estate markets, contingent offers often lose out to stronger, more straightforward offers. If a seller receives multiple bids, they may bypass a contingent offer in favor of one with fewer potential roadblocks, even if the contingent offer is higher in price.

Time Sensitivity and Deadlines

  • Contingencies often come with strict deadlines. For instance, a financing contingency might require the buyer to secure a loan within 30 days, or a home sale contingency might have a specific timeline for selling the buyer’s existing property. Failing to meet these deadlines can void the offer or lead to penalties.

Weaker Negotiating Position

  • Buyers with numerous or out-of-the-ordinary contingencies may have less leverage when negotiating terms such as price, closing costs, closing dates, or repairs. Sellers might be less willing to accommodate requests if they perceive the deal as uncertain or overly complicated.

Potential for Double Costs

  • A home sale contingency can leave buyers in limbo, particularly if they move forward without selling after their contingency gets called. In such cases, buyers may face overlapping costs, such as paying for two mortgages, insurance, and property taxes, until their existing property sells.

Tips for Writing a Strong Contingent Offer

Please note there is a big difference between an offer including common contingencies (think inspection, financing, appraisal) and an offer contingent on the sale of a home. If you decide to write a contingent offer, consider these strategies to make it more appealing to sellers:

Limit the Number of Contingencies

  • Include only the contingencies you truly need or that your agent communicates are common with most offers. A simpler offer is often more attractive to sellers.

Set Realistic and Short Timelines

  • Tight deadlines for resolving contingencies can reassure sellers that you’re committed to closing the deal quickly.

Provide Evidence of Financial Stability

  • Offer a larger earnest money deposit or include a pre-approval letter from a lender to demonstrate your seriousness and financial readiness.
  • A higher offer price can offset the perceived risk of a contingent offer, making it more enticing for sellers.

Negotiate a Kick-Out Clause

  • A kick-out clause allows the seller to continue marketing their home while your contingencies are resolved. If another buyer makes an offer, you’ll have a set period to remove your contingencies or step aside and withdraw/cancel your offer.

If this sounds like a lot, don’t worry. I have been successfully negotiating home sales for sellers and buyers since 2001. Let me put my years of knowledge to work for you!

Less common contingencies include:

Home Sale Contingency: The buyer must sell (close) their current home before purchasing the new one. This type of contingency is less common in a seller’s market or price points where competition among buyers is strong regardless of the overall market conditions.

Common Buyer Misconceptions of a home sale contingency offer

  • You think you are submitting a strong offer, but you’re not. A home sale contingency offer is the least desirable of all offers to a home seller. A seller accepting this type of offer is doing so in hopes that your home actually sells. Once a home seller accepts this type of offer, the showings generally slow considerably as they are basically taking their home off the market waiting for your home to sell. Because of the unknown, sellers demand a premium from the buyer.
  • You think you are actually securing the purchase of the home. You may have an accepted offer if the seller agrees to this type of contingency, but you have no type of guarantee that the home you just fell in love with will actually be the one you buy. With an accepted offer of this type, sellers continue to market their home for sale and if another non-contingent buyer submits an offer on the home, you will have “x” amount of time to prove that the home you are selling has an accepted offer on it or that you qualify to purchase the new home without selling first. Generally, the seller will only give you a few days after they call your contingency. This is referred to as a kick-out-clause. If you do not have an accepted offer on your home within that kick-out-clause timeframe the sellers can move on to the other offer and you’re back to square one. However, now you have your home on the market and you don’t know where you will move to. Additionally, sellers can call your contingency at any time, whether they have received another offer or not. They get tired of waiting.
  • You think you have the upper hand in negotiating. You could have an 850-credit score and a 50% down payment, but most sellers still want list price or higher to even consider this type of offer. They weigh the risks and require additional incentives for accepting your offer. Even if your offer was accepted by the seller, many homebuyers become afraid of losing their dream home and end up selling their current home, in a panic, for less than they could have. You might overpay by $10,000 or more on the purchase and sell for $10,000 less than you could have. It adds up quickly.

Why do sellers require a premium when accepting home sale contingent offers?

  1. They have no idea if your home is priced correctly.
  2. They have no idea how motivated you are to actually sell your home.
  3. They have no say in the qualifications of the agent you hire to sell your home.
  4. They would be accepting double the normal amount of contingencies to get their home sold. If an average buyer generally submits an offer on a home with an inspection, appraisal and financing contingency, adding one more home sale to the mix essentially doubles the hurdles needed to successfully close.

Alternatives to writing a home sale contingent offer

If you’re wary of writing a home sale contingent offer, consider these alternatives:

  1. Bridge Loan: A short-term loan that allows you to buy a new home before selling your current one.
  2. HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit): Use the equity in your current home to fund the down payment or outright purchase of your new home.
  3. Secure an offer on your home, then write the offer on your next purchase before your current home closes. Obviously temporary housing may be needed if you have ultra specific requirements for your next home and nothing comes on the market before you close your home sale or you are unable to time the closing dates.

The new contingent home sale offer

Ever since I started my career in real estate, offers to purchase a home contingent on the successful sale of a buyer’s home have not been a common occurrence. Years ago they were. Prior to the housing bubble it seemed like everyone could easily secure a bridge loan or qualify to purchase their next home without selling first. If you weren’t willing take on that type of risk (buying before selling) contingent offers were more common.

Times have changed. Lending requirements have tightened, and many people just aren’t willing to take on the risk of double payments even if they qualify to do so. So, what are people doing to navigate the home sale then purchase process?

I recommend people start by getting their home ready to put on the market. Bring on the home stagers, pre-inspections, painters, and plenty of moving boxes for de-cluttering and pre-packing. When the home is ready for the market, we immediately start shopping! Once we find a few homes that pique your interest, we immediately put your home on the market. When an offer is secured on your home, we turn around and write an offer on the home of your choice that is contingent on the successful closing of the home you are selling. This is different than writing an offer contingent on the sale of a home. Your home already has an accepted offer on it and is waiting to close.

Bottom line

Writing a home sale contingent offer on a home can be both a safety net and a potential hurdle. While it protects buyers from financial risks and unforeseen issues, it can also reduce the offer’s attractiveness to sellers, especially in competitive markets. By understanding the pros and cons of offers with contingencies and tailoring your offer to the circumstances, you can strike a balance between safeguarding your interests and appealing to the seller.

Ultimately, whether or not to write a home sale contingent offer depends on your financial situation, the market conditions, and the specific property you’re pursuing. With careful planning and the right strategy, you can navigate the home-buying process with confidence and success. Just know that home sale contingency offers can be very emotional for people.

It can work well, under the right circumstances

Every year thousands of homes sell with home sale contingent offers. It is important to understand the situation when this type of offer has the highest likelihood of getting accepted. In fact, I usually call sellers before writing the offer to see if they would even consider this type of offer. Not every seller will. Every seller’s motivation is different, but their market time and conditions in the area you are buying and selling give a lot of weight to a seller deciding to accept this type of offer. Expecting sellers of a new listing on the market to consider this type of offer without weeks of market time exposure will let you down more times than not. While home sale contingent offers aren’t often a seller’s first choice, they can work perfectly under the right circumstances.

Give me a call to discuss your unique situation to find out how we can best to move forward in securing your next home!

Read my post called Buyer Strategy for Buying a home in Grand Junction for more tips or Buying a Home in Grand Junction that highlights the importance of hiring the RIGHT real estate agent to represent you.

Buying a home in Grand Junction - young buyers with Paul Aspelin REALTOR

My happy buyer clients!

Connect with me on LinkedIn

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Serving Grand Junction, Palisade, Fruita and all of Mesa County
Text/Call 612-306-9558

© 2024 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®. MovetoGrandJunction.com Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

Photo Credit for Featured Image at top of page: © rawpixel, 123RF Free Images

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Buyer Strategy for Buying a House in Grand Junction

Grand Junction recognized by the Media as a Great Place to Retire!

You shouldn’t have to wonder about the services offered by a buyer’s agent when searching for a home. I have a very focused, customized buyer strategy for buying a house in Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and all-around Mesa County. Whether you are looking for one-level living with low maintenance or a larger property with plenty of options to store your RV and toys. Do you want an association to help maintain your property or do you want a place without so many rules and restrictions? Either way, I’d love to help you make sense of the real estate market in and around the Grand Valley. I can assist with other areas too if you are buying a house in Colorado, other than the Grand Valley.

I have been told that I “do real estate differently” than traditional real estate agents. That goes for listing and selling a property as well as representing buyers in Mesa County, Colorado. I don’t want to give away all of my “secret sauce” but here are a few ways I serve my clients that not every agent offers their clients… up front…to every client.

I offer the same high level of personalized service to EVERY Client, EVERY Time.

I don’t have one level of service for this price range, and a higher level of service for that price range. EVERY client gets my full attention. When we are together, I am not checking my phone, responding to text messages or taking a call. I am focused on you so I can learn more about your specific needs and provide you my opinion of the homes we view.

I’ve got a unique skill set not found with the traditional agents serving Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade and Mesa County.  That skill set is noticing things in the homes we view that inspectors will flag. Working in the real estate market in Minnesota for over 2 decades and assisting hundreds of buyer clients, I attended EVERY inspection on EVERY home my buyers purchased. Surprisingly, that is not something traditional agents do in the Grand Valley. In fact, one inspector told me there would be an additional charge of $150 if anyone attended the inspection. What!!?? You’ve got to be kidding me?

I found a reputable inspector that welcomes agents and buyers alike so they can educate my clients on what they are buying, not just a 15 minute “go over” session at the end. After personally attending and learning from hundreds of inspections over the years, I have a different “eye” when it comes to home shopping than traditional agents. This helps my clients make better and more informed decisions before they submit an offer. You deserve a custom buyer strategy for buying a house in Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade or elsewhere in Mesa County.

I ask a lot of questions.

I need to fully understand your property search criteria. By having a deep conversation, I often uncover nuggets of information that I can use for your specific property search and for when we put together an offer on a property. Of course, I ask about your timeline, if you have a property to sell, and your options regarding financing the purchase or paying cash. But there is so much more information I gather to help us make the best decisions. And when we talk, I listen, take notes, and hone a buyer strategy that’s right for your specific purchase.

I use my experience and knowledge.

Not only have I been creating a buyer strategy for buying a house in Grand Junction, but I have been creating some very impressive buyer offers since 2001 when I started my real estate career in Minnesota. I have learned so much along the way that I have a huge toolbox from which to pull out ideas, incentives, and language. I have successfully negotiated with some of the “top real estate agents” and let me tell you, they aren’t “all that”. I understand how to write and present offers that protect your best interests that are also attractive to sellers.  My clients are always extremely happy with my services. You can learn more about my real estate history by reading my About Paul Aspelin page.

You will understand the paperwork you sign. Every single time! Period!

About 10 years ago, the industry went through the adoption of digital signing on real estate contracts. What a time-saver for everyone involved. Unfortunately, this product has allowed agents to simply email contracts over to clients without explanation. Without the repetition of going over these contracts in front of clients and answering questions along the way, traditional agents never truly understand what they are presenting and fail to thoroughly explain the ramifications of some of the language used.

I often hear agents tell their clients “I’m not an attorney so I am going to send you the contract to read over”. A licensed Realtor® is not a licensed attorney in any way, but that is no excuse not to explain a contract YOU put together.

I was recently contacted by a customer that was having a horrible experience with the agent they were working with. I asked if they were under any type of exclusive contract with the agent and they responded, “I don’t know”. I then requested to see a copy of their representation paperwork. They didn’t have it. Their agent never sent the signed document to them! They contacted their agent to get a copy, and I was dumbfounded by what I read. I took a few minutes to explain the contract, as it was written, to the customer and they knew right away this agent had no idea what they were doing.  They actually didn’t even have a legally binding contract in place to represent their interests. The contract also failed to accurately include language outlining how compensation was paid, which is a huge mistake in light of the 2024 NAR changes. This agent has been conducting business for five years in the Grand Valley and is considered to be an agent that does a good bit of business in the luxury market. Wow! People deserve better.

When I started my career, it was a requirement to present all offers and agreements in person. You had to understand what the contracts meant, or you would be perceived as completely incompetent. This “old school” training is something that every agent should practice, regardless of the technology used in our industry, but the majority don’t.  Don’t settle for a traditional agent when it comes to representation for the biggest transaction of your life.

I put MY CLIENT’S best interests first.

Paul Aspelin Reviews and RecommendationsSome agents claim they do this, and I hope they do. However, I can tell you from my years of experience that not all agents follow the strict code of ethics that I do. Some agents are desperate to “close the deal” to “put numbers up on the board”. Not me. I have never been interested in winning a blue ribbon in any sales contest. That doesn’t motivate me. I don’t measure success that way.

I always, always put my client’s best interest first because that’s what comes naturally to me. It’s how I was taught to service my clients. Do my very best for every client, every time. I want you to have the best possible experience working with me, so you feel confident to refer me to your friends, co-workers and family. I earn referrals by making YOU happy, not my broker.

You can read the reviews and recommendations I get from past clients. So many hand-written thank you notes. They mean so much to me.

Selective buyer service.

I am at that point in my career where I can be patient, and selective, with the clients I work with. I put a lot of effort into learning about my buyer’s needs. I search the MLS for the best properties that meet their criteria, but I go beyond that by networking with other agents to find off-market properties too. Because I make such a huge commitment to my clients, up-front, I ask that they commit to me too. I want to build a relationship with my buyers. This isn’t just a “transaction” and I’m onto the next. I want to know that my buyers are serious about finding a property, not just wanting to look at properties for design ideas.

I work with a lot of buyers relocating to the Grand Valley from out of state. Many times, I am a tour guide for your first visit here. I love offering this experience. Not all agents are willing to give this level of service. I have heard stories that buyers pick out 10-12 properties to look at while they are in town and the agent says, I’ll show you 5, which ones do you want to see? Hello? Are they too busy for you or just not willing to put in the effort?

Putting together the best offer.

Here’s where I really shine for my buyer clients. I believe in strong communication throughout the process. Because I have spent the time to fully understand you and the criteria for your purchase my excitement builds. Because of my years of experience, I understand seller motivation, seller concessions, incentives, and how to put together the best offer for my clients. I have different techniques for different circumstances. Every offer has my client’s best interests in mind. Sometimes my clients don’t like to hear my advice, but I always tell them the truth and let them decide how to proceed.

I’d love the opportunity to learn about you and your buyer needs.

Call or text me at 612-306-9558. You can read my post called Choosing the Best Real Estate Agent for more information like this. I can set up an MLS search to get your feet wet.

You might want to read about my experience of moving to Grand Junction. Start with the posts about Moving Preparation and what I learned in the first three months of living here. And for a good laugh, read the post called What It’s Really Like to Drive I-70 from Denver to Grand Junction!

Buyer Strategy for Buying a House in Grand Junction

Moose in the pond behind us just south of Breckenridge CO

Buyer Strategy for Buying a House in Grand Junction, Palisade, Fruita and all of Mesa County.

Connect with me on LinkedIn

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Serving Grand Junction, Palisade, Fruita and all of Mesa County
Text/Call 612-306-9558

© 2024 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®. MovetoGrandJunction.com Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

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Buying a Home in Grand Junction

Buying a home in Grand Junction

The process for buying a home in Grand Junction has changed with the NAR settlement requiring buyers to sign documents regarding representation and compensation BEFORE they even view a home. However, the need for working with the right real estate professional hasn’t changed one bit. In fact, it is more important than ever! Let me explain.

If you’re considering buying a home in Grand Junction, Fruita or Palisade it’s time to do some homework. Gone are the days of simply choosing an agent because they seemed nice at the open house or because they have been sending you recipe cards for the last six months. Buying a home in Grand Junction will be one of the biggest financial transactions of your life with more money on the line than ever before. Consumers can no longer afford to partner with part-time agents or those without the skills and expertise to help navigate you through to a successful closing.

First-Time Homebuyer, Second or Third Purchase or Relocating to Grand Junction

Buying a home in Grand Junction - young buyers with Paul Aspelin REALTOR

My happy buyer clients!

Whether you’re buying a new home in Grand Junction as a current resident or relocating to the Grand Valley, I can help. I’ve spent my 24-year career successfully helping people buy their first home, upsize, downsize, build new construction, purchase vacant land, and secure investment properties.

My years of experience and number of clients might seem like great qualifying factors for working with an agent when buying a home in Grand Junction, but I offer so much more than traditional agents. My goal is not to “sell you a home”, but to find you the RIGHT HOME. While we tour homes, I am constantly pointing out things that will get flagged during an inspection, along with communicating what I see inside and outside, as if I am the buyer purchasing a property.

My job is to provide you with all the information I can so you can make an informed decision before you submit an offer. I understand the buying process, it’s second nature after assisting hundreds and hundreds of buyers over the years. Read my post about being your personal Grand Junction Relocation Guide!

The importance of hiring the right agent to work with

In assisting buyers interested in buying a home in Grand Junction, Fruita or Palisade, I take a 3-prong approach to your journey.

Redlands 360 Easter Hill Grand Junction

My Relocation Buyers love their new house in Redlands 360 Easter Hill in Grand Junction

1) First, I make sure you understand the process at each stage of a transaction. From pre-approval with the right lender, utilizing the right loan, to what to expect from inspections, Radon testing, potential appraisal issues and other contingencies in real estate.

But where my skills really shine…

2) is in writing a purchase agreement that not only protects you, but is also attractive to the seller. I’ve worked in every type of market imaginable, and one thing I can always pride myself on… I have never been one of those agents who needed to write 10 offers for my buyer clients before we secured a home. I’m sure you’ve heard horror stories from unsuccessful buyers who literally gave up their home search out of frustration. “The market is just too difficult right now” is a common phrase heard. If that’s true, then how come the most successful agents are still finding success for their clients, even in the hottest of market conditions? It comes down to skill and experience. Two things that can only be gained through working with clients. You deserve more than to be an agent’s practice client while they try to figure out what works in this industry. I will clearly communicate what it is going to take to secure that home and only you decide which route to take with your offer.

3) My goal is to make you feel like your experience working with me was worthwhile, fun, educational, and that you understand that I have your best interest first and foremost at all times. I’ve never “sold” anyone a home, but I have successfully guided hundreds of people to make the best decision for them when buying a home.

Allow me to provide you with a home buying service nothing short of what I would do for myself. You might also like to read my post about helping you find an agent to sell your home. Best Grand Junction Real Estate Agent Referral.

Paul and wife, Michelle, at Emerald Lake, north of Crested Butte, CO

Read how my past clients have described the type of service I offer my clients, all of my clients, every time! Paul Aspelin Reviews and Recommendations. Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.

Read my post about Best Grand Junction Real Estate Agents.

Text/Call 612-306-9558

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE

Grand Junction Real Estate Expert
Learn more about my experience and how I serve my clients

© 2024 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®. MovetoGrandJunction.com Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

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Redlands 360 Easter Hill in Grand Junction

Living in Redlands 360 – Easter Hill in Grand Junction

Easter Hill Housing development is in the Master Planned community of Redlands 360

Redlands 360 Easter Hill in Grand Junction

My Buyers House in Redlands 360 Easter Hill in Grand Junction

Discover Redlands 360 Easter Hill in Grand Junction. People have always found the Redlands area of Grand Junction, CO a top location to consider buying a home. What’s not to like? The spectacular views and access to the Colorado National Monument are at your doorstep regardless of the homesite you choose. The proximity to trails for hiking and biking along with shopping, restaurants, the quaint Main Street of downtown Grand Junction, and access to the Colorado River and Riverfront Trail is all just minutes away. Let’s not forget the views of the Book Cliff Mountains including Mount Garfield and the largest flat-top mountain in the world, the Grand Mesa. Three distinctively different Redlands 360 views overlook the Grand Valley here on the western slope of Colorado.

With the higher elevation of the Redlands 360 Easter Hill in Grand Junction, tucked up close to the base of the Colorado National Monument, you get long stunning views from an exceptional high location. Wouldn’t a Redlands 360 inspired view of these spectacular landmarks make for an incredible home setting?

View from the back deck overlooking Redlands 360 Easter Hill in Grand Junction trails

That’s exactly what you’ll find when you consider building a home in the Redlands CO newest community, Redlands 360. The 600 acres of land encompassing this spectacular master planned community has long been renowned as a community gem. Originally envisioned to become an executive links golf course, the property has been hiked and biked by locals and visitors alike for the last 20 years as a privately owned but accessed space by the public.

Today, the excitement builds as the Redlands 360 community is currently offering homesites in Easter Hill and Canyon Rim 360 neighborhoods of the development. Upon entering the Easter Hill development you’ll immediately understand how the name Redlands 360 came about. The 360-degree views of everything the Grand Valley has to offer are on full display.

I’ve had the pleasure of assisting a relocation client through the Goetzmann Homes build process in Easter Hill. They found me because of this website! We met with the builder team when a spec home was just starting. My clients have been able to customize some of the finishes and modify the floor plan to fit their lifestyle. It’s been a wonderful experience working with a builder that has the experience and vision like Goetzmann Homes. The team, along with the builder, Phil, are great communicators that understand how to deliver a client experience and a home to be cherished.

Looking out the Living and Dining Room windows

If you’re planning to check out Redlands 360 Easter Hill in Grand Junction, be sure to stop by the Goetzmann model home which is tucked back into the development.  Enter the neighborhood and turn right onto Culebra Drive. The model home sits perched above what seems to be endless mountain biking single track and hiking trails steps away. Goetzmann Homes has really done an incredible job of bringing nature’s beauty inside this model home and will do the same for you when building with them on any of their gorgeous lots. Large windows provide picturesque views that draw you in while providing a light and bright open feeling. With a gourmet kitchen, main floor owner’s suite, soaring vaults in the living room, and a finished walkout lower level, you’ll find all the space you need for entertaining and living your best life. Let’s be honest though… the covered deck off the back of the home is sure to be a favorite spot for everyone looking for a Goetzmann built home in the Redlands 360 community. Come to tour the Goetzmann model but stay to enjoy the views.

View the Redlands 360 Master Plan Map.

Learn more by reading my posts about Grand Junction Real Estate and Retiring in Grand Junction (your kids and grandkids will thank you!). Let me be your personal Grand Junction Relocation Guide!

Call me today if you’d like to tour any of the Goetzmann Homes properties available in Redlands 360.

Your new happy place is waiting for you!

Text/Call 612-306-9558

PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE

Grand Junction Real Estate Expert licensed in Colorado.
Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.
Learn more about my experience and how I serve my clients
© 2024 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®. MovetoGrandJunction.com Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

Redlands 360 Easter Hill in Grand Junction

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Grand Junction Real Estate

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 years of experience helping buyers and sellers, your Grand Junction real estate needs are my top priority. Live your vacation every day when you move to Grand Junction! I post short videos and announce new website posts on my Facebook page called Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction.

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

Paul Aspelin REALTORAre 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. 😊

Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction!

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 

© 2024 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®. MovetoGrandJunction.com Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

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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 post short videos and announce new website posts on my Facebook page called Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction. So be sure to follow me on Facebook to stay informed.

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

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, year-round 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 and Things to do in Grand Junction: Easy Hikes.

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!

Be sure to get your kids and grandkids a water bottle for their trip to Grand Junction. Read my post about which water bottles we have, why we chose them, and where to get them locally.

Live Your Vacation Everyday when you Move to Grand Junction!

Michelle and Paul AspelinText/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 

 

© 2024 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®. MovetoGrandJunction.com Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

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When Should I Sell My House?

When Should I Sell My House?

Are you asking yourself “When should I sell my house”? or “Is THIS a good time to sell a home”? Sellers frequently ask me these questions. What they really want to know is “when is the best time to list my house for sale” because they want a quick sale and the highest price. The spring market usually provides the highest activity but more importantly, is your house ready? I mean really ready? First let’s talk about timing, then preparation.

Historic Real Estate Market

Under historic normal real estate market conditions, there were always very predictable market periods of activity and in-activity. The spring market flurry could start anywhere from the first week of January up to June. I’ve seen active spring markets last for 5 months and I have seen them last two weeks (think 2009).

Most Realtors® will agree that it feels like the spring market instantly turns on and off like a light switch. Many have joked that the spring market starts immediately after Super Bowl Sunday.

Once it starts, an active real estate market will usually cruise along with a slowdown around Memorial Day through the first couple weeks of June as attention shifts to graduations and the start of summer.

The rest of June and July are generally steady except for the week surrounding the 4th of July holiday. Activity will slow down in the last two weeks of August as people prepare for back to school, and many Realtors® take vacations with their own family.

The fall market takes off after Labor Day weekend in September and starts to slow at the beginning of November. Not surprising, the last two weeks of December have always been slow with people enjoying family and the holidays.

Of course, there are exceptions to the norm, and economic circumstances have a significant effect on the listing and sale of homes. Election years have shown lower activity but then accelerate afterwards, no matter who is currently in office and who won the election!

Here’s a chart from the Colorado Association of REALTORS from March 2024 showing a statewide Single Family Market Overview. Over a year, you can see the increases and decreases in the number of units on the market, pending, sold, etc. You can click on their website to get Mesa County specific reports or other Colorado counties.

Market Overview March 2024 Colorado Single Family

Today’s Real Estate Market

This year is no exception with market activity coming to life in March and April, more people began to list homes for sale. I feel the rate of home showings for the rest of the year will follow normal ebbs and flows.

Any time there is limited inventory is a GREAT time to list your home. Buyers are out there waiting for homes to come on the market. Years ago, I would have estimated that four out of ten showings on a home would be from serious “I need to buy right now” buyers. The remaining six showings were people just starting to look or only “shopping” not ready to buy. Today, that ratio is more like 8 serious ready-to-move buyers out of every 10 home showings. This bodes well for sellers. It doesn’t take 50 showings to fetch a great offer on your home!

Preparing Your Property for the Market

Home prepared for the market.

I could write a whole post explaining the detailed advice I provide as a licensed real estate professional when it comes to preparing a home for the market. I want the absolute best for every client, every time. Each client deserves my full attention and my full list of enhanced services. No matter what price point their home will be listed for on the MLS.

There are several “must do” items, however sometimes I say, “Skip it, save your money”. During a consultation, I address home inspections, appraisals, home staging, cleaning and repairs, updates, etc. The thing is, each property truly IS unique. I prefer to meet with my clients in person and explain my services and advice specific to THEIR property. In fact, that initial meeting with homeowners’ lights me up. I get energized by helping create a detailed plan for success. I enjoy hearing a seller’s story. I ask a lot of questions so I can fully understand their objectives and their timeline. So, when I started this post about when should I sell my house, what I want you to think about first is if your home is truly READY for the market. Then we can talk about when to list it for sale.

If you are considering selling your property, call me for honest advice and guidance you can count on. I have been listing and selling homes since 2001. Let me put my real estate experience to work for you!

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. 😊

Paul Aspelin Reviews and Recommendations

Michelle and Paul AspelinText/Call 612-306-9558

PAUL ASPELIN, Realtor®
GRI, SRES®, CNE

Connect with me on LinkedIn or send me an email.
Learn more about my experience and how I serve my clients
© 2024 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®. MovetoGrandJunction.com Copyright protected. All rights reserved.

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