Tag Archive for: relocating to Grand Junction

Top 30 Colorado Blogs 2025—MoveTo GrandJunction.com

Celebrating Feedspot.com Recognition and the Western Slope Lifestyle

30 Best Colorado Blogs by Feedspot.com badge for 2025 because #15 is movetograndjunction.comMoveToGrandJunction.com has been recognized as one of Feedspot’s 30 Best Colorado Blogs and Websites in 2025! We are the only real estate and relocation blog from Grand Junction or the Western Slope to earn a spot on the list, highlighting trusted Grand Junction relocation insights and resources.

Feedspot.com reviews thousands of blogs each year, evaluating content quality, consistency, authority, and reader engagement. To be recognized alongside major statewide publications is an incredible confirmation that the hyper-local guidance we provide for people moving to Grand Junction truly matters.

This recognition is about more than just awards — it’s about celebrating the Western Slope lifestyle and helping people discover everything this region has to offer. From its outdoor adventures to unique neighborhoods and vibrant communities, we’re proud to showcase the best of life on the Western Slope.

Learn more about me.

Why This Recognition Matters

Recognition is exciting, but the real value comes from what this means for the people using MoveToGrandJunction.com as a trusted Grand Junction relocation blog and Western Slope relocation resource.

  1. Trustworthy, Reliable Information
    Feedspot’s editorial team selected the Top 30 Colorado blogs based on content quality, accuracy, and value. Readers can rely on MoveToGrandJunction.com as one of the most trusted and original real estate resources for relocating to Grand Junction and the Western Slope.
  2. A Fresh, Local Perspective — Not Generic “Copy-Paste” Content
    Most relocation blogs are written by writers who have never set foot in Mesa County. Every article on my Move To Grand Junction blog is based on 25+ years of real estate experience, an understanding of the Western Slope lifestyle, a “never stop exploring” attitude, and countless conversations with people considering a move to Grand Junction. This ensures hyper-local guidance and practical tips you won’t find on generic relocation sites.

“Paul went above and beyond expectations- all done with a respectful and caring attitude! Thank you so much!” – Chuck Weber

What Makes MoveToGrandJunction.com Stand Out

These are the qualities the Feedspot.com team looks for — and why the blog stands apart:

  • Hyper-local Accuracy: Every guide is based on actual experience living, exploring, and working in the Grand Junction area.
  • Real Relocation Guidance: From “Top Day Trips from Grand Junction” recommendations to local real estate insights, it’s built for real people making big decisions and real moves.
  • Human-Friendly Writing: Crafted to be approachable, useful, and actionable for anyone relocating to the Western Slope.
  • Market Insights You Won’t Find on Generic Real Estate Sites: The blog is backed by 25 years of real estate expertise and a love for taking care of people wanting to move to the Grand Valley.

Articles you might enjoy

A Big Thank You to Our Readers & Relocators

This recognition is exciting, but the real reward is knowing the content is helping visitors to this blog make informed decisions about moving to Grand Junction. Whether you’re researching neighborhoods, planning a visit, or moving across the country, I created this blog to help you feel confident about your choice — and to celebrate the Western Slope lifestyle along the way.

Your visits, questions, and feedback make this possible, and we couldn’t do it without you. Many of our Live Your Vacation blog posts are inspired from my conversations with people like you!

Please let us know what you’re thinking.

What’s Coming Next for MoveToGrandJunction.com

Map of Ouray, Silverton, Telluride area and Million Dollar HighwayFeedspot’s recognition motivates us to keep raising the bar. Here’s what’s in the pipeline:

Stay tuned — there’s a lot more coming for anyone considering a move to this incredible region. Please reach out with questions and comments as our conversations spark new blog posts.

Planning a Move to Grand Junction?

If you’re relocating to Grand Junction, explore all the guides, tools, and resources on our Living Your Vacation blog page or reach out directly for personalized help.

Start Your Move to Grand Junction Discussion Here → 

Start your home search with a local MLS source

Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction!

Michelle and Paul Aspelin at Peach Street Distillery in Palisade, CO
PAUL ASPELIN, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Serving Grand Junction, Palisade, Fruita and all of Mesa County
Grand Junction Real Estate Expert
Text/Call 612-306-9558

Connect with me on LinkedIn

Paul Aspelin Reviews and Recommendations

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

Photo below is from our day trip to the Maroon Bells area near Aspen/Snowmass. A wonderful trip with one of our daughters.

Top 30 Colorado Blogs award for movetograndjunction.com here's a photo of Maroon Bells near Aspen CO

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Grand Junction Mortgage Lender

Why work with a local Grand Junction Mortgage Expert?

Guest Post written by Nicole Sears of Fairway Home Mortgage

Are you considering a relocation and home purchase in Grand Junction, Colorado? Finding the right local Grand Junction Mortgage expert is essential for a smooth transition.  Whether you need to further understand first-time homebuyer mortgage requirements, or home mortgages for self-employed people, a local Grand Junction mortgage expert can help guide the way.

Grand Junction Mortgage Expert

Fairway Home Mortgage is located on the corner of Main Street and 6th Street in downtown Grand Junction, Colorado

As a mortgage expert who made the transition from Denver to Grand Junction, Colorado eight years ago, I understand the complexities and excitement that come with such a significant decision.  In this guide, we’ll explore the relocation journey to Grand Junction and how a local Grand Junction Mortgage expert can help. Everything from navigating first-time homebuyer mortgage requirements to understanding home mortgages for self-employed people can be overwhelming without the help of a local Grand Junction Mortgage expert.

When it comes to securing a home loan, many people become frozen in their circumstances. It’s common to feel a bit overwhelmed with the mortgage process when buying a new home. This is one of the reasons it is so important to partner with a local Grand Junction Mortgage expert. You’re already dealing with everything else that comes along with your relocation to Grand Junction, allow me to help make this transition seamless and tailored to your needs. It’s my specialty!

Seven tips for starting the Home Loan Process when relocating to Grand Junction, Colorado

  1. Professional Advice: Seek guidance from a local Grand Junction mortgage expert like myself that is familiar with the Grand Junction market nuances. Our dedicated team at Fairway Home Mortgage is committed to assisting you at every step, from pre-approval to closing, fostering lasting relationships beyond transactions.
  2. Start Early: Initiate your mortgage journey in advance to explore available options and make informed decisions aligned with your financial goals. Our goal is to provide clarity on interest rates, down payments, closing costs, and programs you may be eligible for. This all ensures a smooth and transparent process.
  3. Secure a Transfer or Job Offer Letter: Dispelling the myth that homeownership requires years with the same employer, you can initiate the process with a solid job offer. At Fairway Home Mortgage, we specialize in facilitating smooth transitions, ensuring you secure your dream home even before your first day on the job.
  4. Remote Work Success: For remote workers transitioning to Grand Junction, our expertise lies in navigating the intricacies of remote employment and facilitating a seamless move. Our diverse mortgage programs cater to varying needs, offering solutions tailored to individual circumstances.
  5. First-Time Homebuyer Mortgage Requirements: Buying your first home should be an exciting time, however most first-time buyers are unsure of the process and don’t know where to start. Working with a trusted local mortgage expert ensures personalized guidance and support every step of the way. We are here to help navigate the path to homeownership and ensure you’re aware of all available loan and down payment opportunities specific to the Grand Junction area.
  6. Home Mortgages for Self-Employed People: Many people believe that lenders view their self-employment status as a barrier to obtaining a mortgage. However, with the guidance of a knowledgeable Grand Junction Mortgage expert, self-employed individuals can discover tailored solutions and specialized programs designed to accommodate their unique financial circumstances. We are experts in calculating and maximizing self-employed income and empowering self-employed individuals to achieve their homeownership goals with confidence.
  7. Diverse Mortgage Programs: Whether you’re one of the many self-employed people, a remote worker, first-time homebuyer, retired or military, our mortgage programs encompass Conventional loans, FHA loans, VA loans, and USDA loans, designed to meet your specific requirements. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the ideal financing solution for your unique situation.

Embarking on the journey to homeownership may seem daunting, but when you work with a local Grand Junction Mortgage expert, it becomes manageable.

At Fairway Home Mortgage, we prioritize building lasting connections with our clients. Beyond being a mortgage lender, I consider myself a friend and partner in your homeownership journey.

Whether you’re curious about mortgages, local amenities, or outdoor activities, I’m here to assist you. As someone who has undergone a similar relocation journey, I understand the importance of having a relatable resource.

Ready to embark on your homeownership journey in Grand Junction? Reach out with any questions or inquiries. I’m not just your mortgage advisor—I’m your partner in turning homeownership dreams into reality.

Get Started with Nicole

Get a sense of your potential home loan by running some numbers with our online mortgage calculator:

Explore the Fairway Home Mortgage Calculator →

Pro Tips: Choosing the Right Grand Junction Mortgage Lender

Finding the right Grand Junction mortgage lender can make a huge difference in your home buying experience. Here are some expert tips:

  1. Look for Local Expertise – A lender who knows the Grand Junction market can provide insights into neighborhoods, property values, and local programs that national lenders may not offer.
  2. Check Program Options – The right Grand Junction mortgage lender will offer a variety of loan programs, including Conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA, and will tailor solutions to first-time buyers, self-employed individuals, and remote workers.
  3. Communication Matters – Choose a lender who responds quickly, explains processes clearly, and makes you feel supported at every step. Your mortgage lender should be a partner, not just a processor.
  4. Transparency on Costs – A reputable Grand Junction mortgage lender will break down interest rates, closing costs, and any fees upfront so there are no surprises.
  5. Leverage Relocation Experience – If you’re moving to Grand Junction from another city, find a lender who has experience helping out-of-town buyers navigate the unique challenges of a relocation.
  6. Trust Referrals from Local Experts – Working with a trusted Grand Junction real estate professional can help you connect with a lender who has proven experience and reliability

“Working with a knowledgeable Grand Junction mortgage lender like Nicole Sears at Fairway Home Mortgage comes highly recommended. In my experience helping buyers relocate to Grand Junction, Nicole consistently provides a smooth, stress-free financing process, tailored to each client’s unique situation. Her local expertise, range of mortgage programs, and personal approach make her a top choice for anyone looking to purchase a home in the Grand Junction area. I confidently recommend Nicole to all my clients—whether they are local buyers or relocating— you’ll be glad you reached out to her.”
— Paul Aspelin, Top Grand Junction Relocation Realtor®

Grand Junction Mortgage Lender FAQ’s

  1. What are the most important things to consider when getting a mortgage in Grand Junction, Colorado?

Grand Junction is a relationship city through and through.  Both the agents and the sellers here want to know who’s on the other side of the deal and having a trusted local lender can make your offer a whole lot stronger. When a listing agent sees a familiar name and knows they can reach me directly, not a call center, it gives them confidence your loan is solid and your closing is going to go smoothly.  I always tell my buyers…  Your mortgage isn’t just a loan; it’s part of your negotiation strategy and having a local lender can genuinely give you an edge here.

  1. What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage in Grand Junction?

The basics are pretty much the same no matter where you’re coming from.

  • Most people will need two years of W-2’s
  • Your most recent month of pay stubs
  • A couple months of bank statements
  • A copy of your ID

Pro Tip: If you’re relocating for work, a solid job offer letter works just fine. And if you’re retiring or already retired, your “income” just looks different. Things like your Social Security award letter, pension info, or statements from your retirement accounts will be needed.

  1. Are there any local or state programs to help first-time homebuyers in Grand Junction?

Yes! Colorado has some awesome programs and Mesa County has a few specific to our area.  Colorado Housing and Finance Authority, https://www.chfainfo.com, offers down-payment assistance and competitive rates for first-time buyers. There are also local grants that pop up throughout the year.

  1. How long does it take to get approved for a mortgage in Grand Junction?

We can absolutely move fast when we need to. I’ve done plenty of same-day pre-approvals when life throws a curveball or the perfect house pops up. But honestly, my favorite way to start is with a quick discovery call. I want to hear about your goals, your timeline, and what “comfortable” looks like for you so we can build the right strategy from the start. It’s never too early to begin the process. But if you’re on a tight timeline, don’t worry, we can shift into high gear easily.

  1. Can I get a mortgage in Grand Junction if I’m relocating from out-of-state?

Yes, absolutely. I work with a ton of buyers who are moving here from other states, and the process is usually much easier than people expect. As long as you have a job lined up, a remote position, or retirement income, we can move forward just like a local buyer.

The biggest thing is staying connected. I walk you through each step, so you never feel like you’re trying to buy a house from a thousand miles away with no idea what’s going on. Whether you’re coming from Denver, Dallas, or somewhere else, we can make this smooth and stress-free.

Begin your home buying journey with confidence

Start your pre-approval with Nicole Sears, a trusted Grand Junction mortgage lender.

Get Pre-Approved →

You might also enjoy the posts written by Paul Aspelin about Retiring in Grand Junction, Relocating to Grand Junction and Why Move to Grand Junction.

Nicole Sears – NMLS #1329851
Loan Officer
Nicole.Sears@fairwaymc.com
(720) 338-8764

Fairway Home Mortgage – Company NMLS #2289
601 Main Street
Grand Junction, CO 81501

© 2024 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR® and Nicole Sears, Loan Officer. Copyright protected. All Rights Reserved.

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Essential Steps for Relocating to Grand Junction

Essential Steps for Relocating to Grand Junction in Colorado

Are you considering relocating to Grand Junction in Colorado? This vibrant city in the heart of the west slope offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a welcoming community. To ensure your move to Grand Junction, Palisade or Fruita is as smooth as the Colorado River, we’ve outlined the essential steps for a successful relocation. And since my wife and I recently moved to Grand Junction, we’ve gone through these steps ourselves and can help offer some advice as well as a few funny stories!

I post short videos and announce new website posts on my Facebook page called Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction.

  1. Set Clear Goals and Objectives for Your Move to Grand Junction

Before you start packing, take some time to define your goals and objectives for relocating to Grand Junction. Whether it’s for a new job, a lifestyle change, or family reasons, having a clear purpose will guide your decisions throughout the process.

  1. Downtown Grand Junction Festive Lights

    Taking in the downtown Grand Junction Festive Lights in December

    Research the City of Grand Junction

Get to know your future home! Grand Junction boasts diverse neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a low crime rate. Dive into research using websites like Niche.com to discover more about this fantastic city and others in Mesa County. Niche gives cities grades for multiple categories like weather, cost of living, jobs, schools, outdoor activities, etc. to help you compare cities as well as top lists for certain criteria like best places to retire, or best cities to raise a family.

Additionally, consider partnering with a knowledgeable local real estate professional to guide you in finding the perfect area to call home. I’d love to show you around the Grand Valley, point out the highlights and help you compare neighborhoods and different areas in Mesa County.

  1. Create a Budget for Your Grand Junction Relocation

Moving can be costly, so crafting a budget can be insightful. Your budget should encompass potential expenses like moving costs, housing, transportation, and daily living. Need assistance with budgeting or securing a mortgage for your Grand Junction home? Don’t hesitate to reach out for recommendations.

  1. Search for a New Home in Grand Junction

With a competitive real estate market, starting your house-hunting process early is key. Partnering with an experienced Grand Junction real estate agent is your best bet to secure your dream home. With over two decades of experience, I am here to ensure your success when you are ready to find the ideal Grand Junction property, or any property in Mesa County. We can start by simply setting you up for an MLS search so you can get familiar with the current housing inventory. Visit my Get Started page.

  1. Prepare for Selling Your Current Home

Packing is a substantial task, so start decluttering and organizing your belongings in advance. In addition to donating items, we found it helpful to sell larger items online with sites like Marketplace on Facebook. Consider this a pre-listing essential for a quick sale if you’re leaving your current home behind. Need help finding the right agent to sell your property? We’ve got you covered. I can provide referrals to trusted agents nationwide or even help you choose a local agent based on your specific needs. Just let me know how I can help! Read the post about Moving Preparation to learn how we did it.

  1. Grand Junction Postcards

    Grand Junction Postcards we mailed to our friends to announce our move and provide our new address

    Notify Important Parties About Your Move

Keep your contacts in the loop about your relocation. This includes your employer, friends, family, and service providers. I can offer tips on how to streamline this process and make it as smooth as possible. You’ll also find a lot of helpful info on this website.

One tip I will give now is to update the address on your credit card first before you start using it to set up automated payments for other providers and be sure to sign up for Informed Delivery with the USPS when you do your mail forwarding address. If you don’t have this set up already, it sure comes in handy when you are between locations, especially if you are living in a temporary location as a part of your move. We mailed our friends and family a postcard from Grand Junction to give them our new address, that was fun! We bought them either at the Colorado National Monument or a fun bookstore in downtown Grand Junction, ask me about it!

  1. Plan the Logistics of Your Move to Grand Junction

Choose your method of transportation to Grand Junction – whether you’re driving, flying, or hiring a moving company. Maybe you’re driving your own moving truck across country like I did. We made one initial small trip with a towable trailer and one vehicle, flew back to Minnesota, then our final trip was with a 20’ truck I drove and my wife drove our second vehicle. We considered a portable on demand storage unit you can fill and have shipped too. I have tips on moving boxes too, ask me before you buy any!

  1. Register Your Vehicle and Update Licenses when you arrive

If you’re bringing your vehicle with you, research the requirements for registering it in Colorado. Additionally, update your driver’s license and vehicle registration to reflect your new Grand Junction address.  If you are coming from out of state, Colorado DMV will charge you $25 for them to walk out to the parking lot and check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on your vehicle. Now, you might luck out and they forget to charge you the fee, but just be prepared. And you go to different places to get your driver’s license (state of Colorado) and register your vehicles (Mesa County). You can read my post about How to Establish Residency in Colorado.

  1. Secure Employment in Grand Junction

For job-related relocations, ensure you have your position secured before the move. If you plan to start your job-hunting in Grand Junction, I can offer networking advice and assist in job search strategies. If you are considering starting your own business or bringing your business with you, check out the Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction, CO. They have a wealth of resources as well as maker space options for small businesses. They have kitchen facilities and large equipment for manufacturing available for use.

  1. Connect with the Grand Junction Community
Farmers Market vendor schedule

Palisade Farmers Market – this vendor was offering a variety of classes

Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the local community. Join clubs, attend events, and engage in social activities. Grand Junction and the whole Grand Valley offers numerous opportunities to explore and enjoy, so soak it all in.

If you come in the summer months, be sure to check out the weekly farmers markets in Palisade, Grand Junction and Fruita! If you are on Facebook, start following the Visit Grand Junction Facebook page and other related pages to see all of the events and opportunities. There is practically some event, festival or celebration going on most of the time.

Relocating to Grand Junction is a significant life change, but with the right guidance, thorough planning, and a helpful real estate agent, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Every step in the process gets you closer to a fresh start in the Grand Valley. Welcome to Grand Junction – we’ve been waiting for you!

Michelle and Paul Aspelin on Grand Mesa

Michelle and Paul Aspelin on the Grand Mesa

Call me with your real estate questions about moving to the Grand Valley or if you need help finding an agent where you are now. I have a network of agents I’ve worked with and can refer to you across the country. I am thankful to be on the Christi Reece team serving the Grand Valley area of western Colorado.

Learn more about moving to Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade.

Live Your Vacation in Grand Junction!

Connect with me on LinkedIn.

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

Paul Aspelin, REALTOR®
GRI, SRES®, CNE
Licensed in Colorado
Serving Mesa County

© 2023 Paul Aspelin, REALTOR® MovetoGrandJunction.com. Copyright protected. All Rights Reserved.

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