Published October 29, 2025

10-29-25 Burgers, Blessings, and the Business of Real Estate

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Written by Victoria Merchant

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At Home and On My Mind

It’s been one of those weeks where life felt full, not chaotic, not calm, just full in the best possible way. Sterling had cotillion again, this time 50s-themed, and there’s something surreal about watching your child learn proper manners while dressed like he just stepped out of Grease. I’m pretty sure his dance moves were more Elvis than etiquette, but he had fun, and that’s what matters.

Meanwhile, Bridger started his very first job washing dishes at Marshdale Burger. He came home after his first shift with that proud yet exhausted look only teenagers can pull off and announced that his back hurt. I tried to keep a straight face but couldn’t help smiling. Every parent knows that “welcome to the real world” moment. I didn’t make a big fuss, but inside I was bursting with pride. It’s one of those milestones that sneaks up on you, a quiet reminder that your child is growing up.

At home, Kamper got a new haircut and now looks like Queen Elizabeth the First, complete with a regal forehead and an attitude to match. The only thing missing is a crown, although we’re keeping an eye on those teeth to make sure he doesn’t take the royal theme too far.

The best part of my week was finally hearing Tag’s voice again. It had been just over a week since we last talked, and I didn’t realize how much I missed him until I heard him laughing about his adventures. He’s finished his training and is now headed to Darjeeling, India in search of the freshest tea he can find. I love that he’s enjoying the experience, but I’ll love it even more when he’s back home this Saturday. Hopefully, he’ll take a few days off before jumping straight back into work.

My mom has been an absolute lifesaver, holding down the fort in Florida. Between prepping for the new leach field, organizing an updated electrical panel, and making sure the pool, lawn, and maintenance teams are doing their jobs, she’s doing the work of ten people. I don’t know what I’d do without her. Once she heads home, I’ll be flying down for a mix of business and rejuvenation. I’ll be finalizing property projects, soaking in some Florida sunshine, and attending a real estate business planning conference that I’m genuinely excited about. It’ll be a chance to reset, focus, and connect with other agents who truly care about service and community.

I also hosted my Ladies Hike on Sunday, and the best part wasn’t the view or the sunshine (though both were amazing). It was when everyone said they wanted to do it again next week. Moments like that remind me how much community fills the spaces that might otherwise feel lonely. And between you and me, organizing these hikes might be just as good for my soul as they are for my step count.

Halloween plans are still up in the air this year. Bridger’s working, our usual crew isn’t doing their thing, and Sterling’s debating between Eliches or something low-key. Whatever we end up doing, I’m sure we’ll find our fun. That seems to be the theme of life lately: finding joy in the unexpected.

Market Musings and Mountain Moves

If I had to describe the real estate market right now in one word, it would be “steady.” Not fast, not frozen, just humming along with a few quirks to keep things interesting. I’ve got four land listings and four home listings, which sounds perfectly balanced until you realize one is a long-term rental, one is a short-term rental, and another isn’t even finished yet. It’s like juggling houses with different personalities.

The good news? I just listed a fantastic property in Conifer: four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a new roof, new carpet, recently refinished floors, and priced $30,000 below the nearest comparable home. If you’ve been looking for a reason to buy, this might be the sign you’ve been waiting for. You can check it out here: 13586 Wamblee Trail, Conifer, CO.

Here are a few highlights from this week’s market update for October 15–21, 2025:

  • The government shutdown continues to cause slight delays in FHA and VA closings, with timelines stretching a few days longer than conventional loans.

  • Inventory has remained steady since mid-August, and while listings are still trending higher than last year, the gap is narrowing.

  • Odds of selling are holding close to levels seen around Independence Day weekend. Listings going under contract in the next 30 days were relatively flat week over week and slightly down year over year.

  • Showings declined again last week. Buyers are still active but cautious, and sellers should be prepared to make a strong impression.

  • Price reductions dipped slightly, but most homes that went under contract had at least one reduction, and the average discount was smaller than the week before but still higher than this time last year.

  • Detached single-family homes showed a slight price softening compared to last month, though prices remain up year over year.

  • More than half of the homes that closed last month sold below asking price, showing that sellers are increasingly flexible to get deals done.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling, now’s the time to stay informed and strategic. Understanding how your home fits into the broader market is key to making confident decisions.

And if you’re looking for a way to spread some kindness this season, please consider joining me for the Blessing Baskets event. We’re hoping to collect at least 25 baskets to help local families in need this holiday season. Every bit of generosity adds up, and together we can make a real difference.

Categories

Community Impact, Real Estate Life & Business, Real Estate Market Insights, Real Estate Market Updates
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