Richard Miskiewicz - Realtor - Compass

Could U.S. Rates Stay Higher in 2027?
As we look toward 2027, many are wondering whether interest rates will finally start to ease—or if we'll be living with higher borrowing costs for a while yet. Persistent inflation and those stubborn long-term Treasury yields have made a quick drop in rates far from a sure thing. The Federal Reserve is walking a tricky line right now, weighing the risks of inflation against some clear signs that the economy's momentum is slowing. For those of us in real estate, higher long-term yields can keep mortgages and business loans expensive, directly impacting both homebuyers and sellers, as well as the broader commercial market. Given all the uncertainty—between rates, fiscal pressures, and inflation—investors seem to be leaning toward a more balanced, cautious approach. With over eight years of experience helping clients navigate Denver’s market, I see firsthand how these bigger economic trends ripple through our neighborhoods and your real estate plans.

Waiting until fall won't make homes more affordable, but here's what will
I’m hearing from a lot of folks wondering if waiting until fall will make homes more affordable—unfortunately, that’s not likely. The income required for a median-priced home in the US has climbed to over $120,000, and with mortgage rates hovering around 6.5% alongside steadily rising prices, holding off isn’t making things easier. Most buyers are putting down 6-9%, though there are options for lower or even zero down payments. In my experience, the best way to approach this market is with careful preparation and a clear plan. Having walked clients through these challenges—drawing on both my real estate expertise and contractor’s eye for value—I know that being ready is what ultimately puts you in the strongest position.

Welcome to 1155 N Ash Street #302, where lifestyle and location come together effortlessly. This inviting condo offers a bright, functional layout designed for easy living, with spacious living areas and a natural flow perfect for both relaxing and entertaining. Large windows fill the home with natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout. Step outside and experience what truly sets this home apart: unbeatable location! Enjoy having everything you need just blocks away. From Trader Joe's and coffee shops to local restaurants, bars, banks, and everyday essentials. Whether it's your morning coffee run, a quick errand, or a night out, convenience is right at your doorstep. The neighborhood continues to grow, with a newly added park nearby featuring pickleball courts and a dog area, offering even more ways to enjoy the Colorado lifestyle just moments from home. Beyond the lifestyle, this home offers an incredible financial advantage. The seller has prepaid HOA dues through December 2026 and has already covered the $30,000 special assessment, providing peace of mind and significant savings for the next owner. Enjoy low-maintenance living with fantastic building amenities, including a pool for summer relaxation, a fully equipped fitness center, a business center ideal for remote work, and convenient storage. This is a rare opportunity to own a move-in-ready home that blends comfort, convenience, and long-term value in one of Denver's most walkable and desirable locations.

U.S. Home Prices Ease Across Major Metros
We’re seeing a noticeable shift in the housing market: in Mid-Q3, the price per square foot dropped year-over-year in 36 out of the 50 largest U.S. metro areas. Nationally, this measure was down about 2% compared to last year—now marking ten consecutive months of cooling. Sellers are starting to meet buyers more in the middle, adjusting asking prices more readily as the market lost steam toward the end of the quarter. High mortgage rates are making affordability a real challenge, especially in markets that saw big jumps during the pandemic. Many of those boom-era areas are now seeing some of their gains recede, with inventory sitting above pre-pandemic levels. Drawing on my years as both a real estate agent and former contractor here in Denver, I’ve been helping clients interpret these trends so they can navigate changing conditions with confidence.

Why Buyers and Sellers Are Stuck
Lately, I’ve been having a lot of conversations with clients about why the Denver market feels stuck. Higher mortgage rates are making it tough for buyers to justify current monthly payments, so many are choosing to hold off rather than jump in. On the other side, pending sales are losing momentum—meaning fewer folks are moving from browsing to taking action. If you already have a lower-rate mortgage, it’s no wonder you’d hesitate to give it up, and that’s keeping a lot of great homes off the market. As someone who’s seen both the construction side and the real estate side, I get how all these factors create a real standstill: buyers are waiting for better options, sellers are holding onto their low payments, and the whole process feels slower than usual. Navigating this takes patience and perspective—two things I always bring to the table for my clients.

More Homes Hit the Market as Demand Cools
We're seeing a subtle but meaningful shift in the housing market: over the four weeks ending August 23, both new listings and total homes for sale crept upward—up 0.4% and 0.5% respectively—marking the most active inventory since early Q2. Meanwhile, pending home sales dipped 1.1% to a six-month low, reflecting how many buyers are pausing amid elevated costs, even as choices improve nationwide. The median home-sale price is now 1.9% higher than last year, sitting above $400K, with average mortgage rates hovering near 7%, close to a 13-month peak.

With inventory growing and demand easing, buyers are finding more opportunities to negotiate—especially on homes that have been listed for several weeks. In my experience, realistic pricing is key for sellers in this environment, while patient buyers can find real leverage. Drawing on my background as both a real estate agent and a contractor here in Denver, I see how these changing dynamics can create room for creative solutions—whether you're strategizing your next move or weighing your options in a shifting market.

US Home Sales Remain Strong Despite Record-High Prices
July brought a 1.7% dip in U.S. existing home sales, landing at a 4.06 million annual rate. At the same time, the median price reached a record $434,100—a 2% increase—while mortgage rates climbed to 6.69%. With inventory still tight at just 1.54 million homes, it’s no wonder buyers and sellers are feeling the pressure. I see firsthand how these numbers play out for families and individuals here in Denver. As someone who pairs local expertise with a contractor’s eye, I’m committed to making sure my clients are informed and supported as they navigate these shifts. Every market has its challenges, but with the right guidance, opportunity is always within reach.