This past week has been a perfect example of how confusing the real estate landscape can be.

📺 On TV: A national headline flashed across the screen claiming “Home sales are the lowest since 2009.”

📊 In the inbox: Altos Research showed pending home sales are ahead of last year.

📰 In print: The National Association of Realtors published an article explaining that despite rising inventory, buyers are still struggling to find affordable options.

Meanwhile, right here in our own community? The numbers paint a different story altogether.

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What the Headlines Are Saying

A recent NAR article explains that while inventory has technically increased, it's not the kind that many buyers are looking for. With over 80% of homeowners locked into sub-5% mortgage rates, fewer people are selling unless they really need to.

At the same time, affordability remains a major barrier — especially in the $300k to $500k range, where new listings are scarce. This helps explain why national sales volume appears low, even though buyer demand remains steady in certain segments.

📌 Read the full article

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What Local Data Shows

Here in the Roaring Fork and Colorado River Valleys, we’re seeing signs of resilience — and a bit of recalibration:

Glenwood Springs (Single-Family Homes)

(According to Altos Research – April 25)

• 38 homes for sale 

• Median list price: $1.45M 

• Price per square foot: $577 

• Median days on market: 42 

• Market Action Index: 34 – Slight seller’s advantage 

• Price reductions: 42% 

💡 Buyers are active — especially for homes under $1.3M — but pricing needs to be strategic.

From Carbondale to Rifle (All Homes – Year to Date)

• 175 homes sold (same number as last year) 

• Average price: $956,526 (↑ 6%) 

• Price per SF: $434 (↑ 3%) 

• Average DOM: 92 (↓ from 114) 

• Sellers receiving: 95% of original list price

💡 This tells us that while buyers are negotiating, most sellers are getting solid results, especially when their homes are priced and presented well.

So… Who’s Right?

All of them — and none of them.

National data reflects national trends, but real estate is always local. In areas like ours, with limited developable land and strong demand, the market behaves differently than it does in places like Phoenix or suburban Chicago.

Add in the fact that interest rates, inflation, and even rent prices are moving in different directions — and it’s no wonder people are unsure about what to do next.

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Our Advice? Get Grounded in Real Data.

Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply stay informed, the best decisions come from:

✅ Understanding your local market

✅ Watching trends, not just headlines

✅ Being strategic about timing and preparation

If you’re curious what your home is worth, or wondering whether it’s the right time to make a move — let’s talk. No pressure, just local insight you can trust.