Why Colorado Homebuyers Are Winning in 2025 & 2026

By Derek and Mariana Wagner

Since launching their real estate careers together on September 11, 2001, Derek and Mariana Wagner have been a trusted team in the Colorado Springs market for over two decades.

Are you tired of worrying that you’ll overpay for a home? After years of bidding wars and skyrocketing prices, it can feel impossible to make a smart purchase. The good news: 2025 is different. Buyers now have the upper hand, and you can finally negotiate with confidence.

Here are the reasons why buyers are in control again and how you can take advantage of this favorable market.

Why buyers have the upper hand. We recently helped a client buy a home in the northwest, getting a great price, having the seller cover closing costs, and negotiating repairs like a new roof and updated electrical panel. With more homes available and fewer buyers, sellers are competing for buyers, giving them more room to ask for price reductions and other perks.

Buyers have more choices. With more homes available and fewer competing buyers, the market has shifted in favor of those looking to purchase. Buyers now have more options to choose from, and sellers are under pressure to make their homes attractive. This increased inventory directly boosts buyer leverage and negotiation power.

Buyers can take their time. Slower sales give buyers the luxury of taking their time to find a home that fits their needs. Multiple-offer situations are rare, allowing buyers to view homes more than once before making an offer. They can also perform thorough due diligence without feeling forced to rush. The days of overpaying or making hasty decisions are largely behind us.

Sellers offer price cuts and perks. Many sellers are willing to reduce prices, often by between 1% and 1.2% off the listing price, and in some markets, even 4% to 5% under. Nearly half of all sellers are offering additional concessions, which can include covering closing costs, repairs, or rate buy-downs to help buyers secure more affordable mortgage rates. These perks make homes more attainable without requiring a direct reduction in price.

Tips for buyers in 2025 and 2026. The strategy is simple: take advantage of the market shift. You can negotiate, avoid the frenzy, and secure homes with favorable terms and perks. Now is the time to carefully select the right home and maximize your buying power.

Sellers need a smart approach to stand out. Success relies on accurate pricing, effective staging, and potentially offering incentives to attract buyers. Not all sellers are prepared for this new dynamic, so having a clear strategy is essential to compete in a buyer-favored market.

Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding this shift is crucial. The market is no longer a race to the finish; it’s a strategic game, and with the right guidance, you can win. Call or text us anytime (719) 437-7311 and email us at derekandmariana@artisangroupco.com to discuss your next move in the market. We’d be happy to provide clear direction and support.