Urgent Update: Home Buyers Face Increased Competition in 2026

UPDATE: As the home-buying season heats up, buyers must brace for increased competition and rising prices. With spring just around the corner, inventory is expected to surge by 33% in Larimer and Weld Counties, according to InfoSparks.

Currently, the housing supply sits at just 2.5 months, but analysts predict it will peak at approximately 3 to 4 months by July/August 2026. This rapid increase in inventory typically attracts more buyers, leading to fierce competition, especially during peak months from March to August. Last summer, despite a plateau in peak sales, prices still rose between 8% and 15% in Northern Colorado cities.

For prospective buyers, this means homes will sell approximately 40% faster this summer, with the average time to go under contract dropping from 70 to 80 days to just 40 to 50 days. With elevated demand and low inventory, buyers will have limited negotiating power, driving prices upward.

Sellers are advised to take immediate action. Homes that are clean, updated, and move-in ready are more likely to attract buyers and can see a price increase of 8% to 15%. However, sellers should not expect the same leniency they enjoyed in previous years. The market has shifted, and buyers are now more selective.

Benson Verbel, a Realtor with NextHome Foundations and President of the Greeley Area Realtor Association, emphasizes the need for sellers to prepare for “picky buyers.” He suggests conducting a comprehensive home condition audit, focusing on cleanliness and curb appeal. Simple improvements such as decluttering, servicing HVAC systems, and tackling deferred maintenance can significantly enhance a home’s marketability.

What does this mean for buyers and sellers? Buyers looking to purchase should act quickly before prices rise by an average of 1.5% to 2% each month from now until August. Sellers, meanwhile, may want to wait until the market becomes more saturated to maximize their sale price, but they should also ensure their homes stand out to attract potential buyers.

As the spring and summer months approach, these trends will shape the real estate landscape in Northern Colorado. Buyers and sellers alike must stay informed and adapt to these shifts for a successful transaction.

Stay up to date with the latest developments in the real estate market by following local news and expert insights. For inquiries or assistance, reach out to Benson Verbel at 970.744.0223 or visit bensonhomesales.com.