Denver Real Estate - and Buying & Selling Denver Colorado Real Estate
Are you looking to buy or sell a home in the Denver real estate market?
Denver Colorado is a great city to buy a home in for those looking for a growing economy and laid-back lifestyle. It boasts both the convenience and culture associated with major metropolitan areas and easy access to some of the most beautiful outdoor activities and nature in the United States. The Denver real estate area is the 20th largest city in the country, with over 560,000 people residing in Denver and with close to 2.5 million living in the the larger Denver metropolitan area. Please refer back to our home page for more information on this or Denver Metro cities.
Dubbed the Mile High City due to its high elevation of 5280 feet above sea level, Denver real estate rests at the base of the Rocky Mountains. This means residents can enjoy the close proximity to some of the country’s best skiing, hiking, biking and camping. You'll love gaining access to more than 35 ski areas and 15 million acres of national parks within 1-2 hours drive time! While Denver borders the mountains, it's actually one of Americas’ flattest cities, making it a great place for both city and mountain bikers. Colorado residents love to be active which may be one reason the state has the healthiest populations in the country - according to Fitness Magazine.
Famous for its 300+ days of sunshine a year, Denver real estate is a great choice for people who enjoy the change in seasons but prefer warm days to cold ones. With an average temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit, Denver is actually warmer than New York, Chicago, Boston, and St. Louis. The large number of dry sunny days (more than San Diego!) mean plenty of time for spending time outside in the mountains or in one of the many beautiful parks located throughout the city. Even winters are relatively mild, with snow melting on most streets by the very next day for Denver home owners.
2007 Sales Statistic's for Denver Real Estate
The Denver Colorado real estate Sales Statistics on single family homes SOLD for 2007 compared to 2006 is amazing to see. Denver metro cities like Arvada, Aurora North, Erie, Greenwood Village, Highlands Ranch, Parker, Lafayette and Thronton real estate markets have remained resilient and had POSITIVE SALES GROWTH in 2007 over 2006. Even in other areas through out the Denver real estate market, home values are still rising in many neighborhoods and subdivisions! Denver and Denver County real estate is divided into several areas on the Denver MLS search. Recent sales statistics show that Denver had flat -.06% sales growth over 2006, with 54 less homes SOLD than in 2006. The 8,942 Denver resale homes were flat in sales growth. This is good news for Denver - as despite the higher number of Denver bank owned homes and foreclosure homes for sale, people are still buying homes.
The median home prices fluctuated quite a bit, depending on the specific area or Denver real estate neighborhood. Call me at (303) 588-4665 and I can help you go over this further; depending on the areas in Denver that you're interested in? This adds credibility that Denver survived the massive real estate train-wreck that hit everyone else nationally like Phoenix, California, Florida, Atlanta and Las Vegas! Now may be the best time to scoop up a Denver Colorado Real Estate bargain.
Denverites love sports and can often be found watching the Broncos play at Invesco Field at Mile High Stadium, the Nuggets and the Avalanche beating their opponents at the Pepsi Center, and the 2007 National League Baseball Champions - the Colorado Rockies, round the bases at Coors Field. Besides the sports stadiums, Denver real estate boasts family-friendly attractions including Elitch Gardens Amusement Park, a large Denver Aquarium and a fanciful Children’s Museum. Denver real estate is bisected by the Cherry Creek Bike Path running from Cherry Creek Reservoir, through Glendale and the Cherry Creek Mall, to Downtown Denver; then along the South Platte River by Elitch’s, Invesco Mile High Stadium and Coors Field. You can bike, jog and walk on the popular South Platte Bike Path all the way to Chatfield Reservoir heading southwest (bring water!), or take stroll along the High Line Canal in the south part of Denver by Wellshire Municipal Golf Course. Animal and rodeo fans love attending the annual National Western Stock Show every January.
Denver Real Estate is a Thriving Arts Community Too...
No longer just a Cow Town, Denver real estate offers a thriving arts community including a state of the art performing arts complex and the new Denver Art Museum building designed by world-renowned architect, Daniel Libeskind. On the first Friday of every month, galleries around the city attract large crowds by staying open late and hosting special events. A local commitment to public art means that both traditional and cutting edge sculptures can be found in public places throughout the city. Denver residents contribute more public money to the arts than any other city in the nation. Two of the most famous public pieces are Lawrence Agents’ big blue bear who can always be found peeking into the Colorado Convention Center and Donald Lipski’s horse on a giant red chair located in front of the Denver Public Library.
If you love a night on the town, Denver real estate offers many options. From gourmet cuisine to authentic Mexican and Vietnamese “hole-in-the walls,” there is an eating establishment to please every palate. Follow dinner with live jazz at the historic El Chapultepec or an opera at the beautiful new opera house. When in the mood for a low key evening, locals flock to the city’s many art-house and multiple cinemas including the Starz Film Center, the historic Mayan Theater, and the United Artists Pavilions located on the 16th Street Mall.
Denver's Economy and Major Employers...
The Denver economy continues to thrive in a range of industries including computer software, telecommunications, biotechnology, health, financial services, gas and oil, aerospace, and defense. This is no surprise considering that Denver is the country’s most educated city with the highest percentage of high school and college graduates. Sun Microsystems, Comcast, Lockheed Martin, Qwest Communications, and Level 3 Communications are among some of the largest local employers. The growing Light Rail provides commuters and other Denver residents with one more transportation option besides driving. Travel for both business and pleasure is easy thanks to the state-of-the-art Denver International Airport (DIA) that is not only one of the busiest airports in the United States, but one of the busiest in the world.
The Denver City and County citizens are ethnically diverse including 50% White, 34% Latino (of any race), 10% African-American, 3% Asian, 1% Native American, and 3% multi-racial. According to the 2000 census, the median household income was $39,910 and the median family income was $48,195. The surrounding Denver suburban cities contribute to an even higher family income base.
Denver architecture is a mix of historic Victorians, Tudors, Denver Squares, Craftsmen, bungalows, ranches and new modern and traditional townhomes, condos, and single family homes. Whether you prefer living in a high-rise downtown, a recently renovated bungalow on a park, or a Victorian fixer-upper, you can find it in Denver.  Many homes in Denver neighborhoods have been remodeled to make the interiors look like brand new homes - adding even more value to the neighborhoods. The most recent Remodeler Magazine shows Costs verses Values in 2007 for many different remodeling projects.
The following is a description of some of the city’s most popular residential neighborhoods:
Denver Neighborhoods
Baker
The recently revitalized Baker neighborhood is perfect for anyone looking to live in an historic neighborhood overflowing with local charm. Baker ranges from Alameda Avenue to 6th Avenue, and from Elati Street to Broadway. The rapidly expanding retail area on Broadway makes the area even more attractive to new residents. The stretch includes a funky mix of vintage furniture and clothing shops, artsy boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Always wanted to live in a Victorian or Craftsmen filled with original details? Home buyers looking in Baker can find renovated homes with a mix of old details and modern conveniences or fixer-uppers waiting for the right owner to give them that special personal touch. Baker homes are affordable and a great option for first time homebuyers. Home prices range from the high $100,000's to about $500,000, although there are some new condo developments in the works that will be priced up to $1 million.
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill, named for its proximity to the gold-domed capitol building, is one of Denver’s oldest neighborhoods. The area is perfect for people who like the convenience of city living and appreciate having a wide range of restaurants, bars, and boutiques within walking distance of their homes. Even more restaurants, bars, and shopping can be found in LoDo, just a short bike ride or drive away. Residents of Capitol Hill also enjoy access to many of Denver’s cultural highlights, including the Denver Art Museum, the Colorado History Museum, the U.S. mint, the Molly Brown House and the largest branch of the Denver Public Library. The diverse neighborhood contains funky music venues, upscale dining, and tree-lined streets. Capitol Hill borders 8th Avenue, Colfax Avenue, Sherman Street, and Corona Street. While Denver condos, town homes and small homes can be found at very affordable prices, large historic homes start in the mid-$500's and run up to $1 million or higher.
Cheesman Park
Surrounding the park for which it was named, Cheesman Park is a mostly residential neighborhood made up of Denver single family homes and an abundance of condos and townhomes, many of which offer lovely views of the park. The neighborhood ranges from 8th Avenue to Colfax Avenue and from Josephine Street to Downing Street. Residents of Cheesman Park appreciate living near both the city’s Botanic Gardens and the rapidly growing retail stretch on Colfax Avenue.
Cherry Creek
One of the most prestigious areas in Denver, Cherry Creek is filled with high-end single family homes, townhouses and condos. The neighborhood falls between 1st Avenue, 6th Avenue, University Boulevard, and Harrison Street. A major benefit of living in Cherry Creek is the proximity to a large range of upscale boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, and the Cherry Creek Mall. Take a short walk through this neighborhood and you will spot many residents sitting outside drinking coffee or walking their dogs as they stroll to the local Farmer’s Market. Cherry Creek is also home to Bromwell Elementary School, one of the top schools in the state. While some smaller homes for sale in Cherry Creek sell for as low as $300,000, most homes are listed at $400,000 and above - with many in the $1-3 million price range.
City Park
Another neighborhood named for the park it surrounds, City Park contains many styles of homes selling for a wide variety of prices. The 320-acre park is the largest in Denver and is home to the Denver Zoo, the Museum of Nature and Science, and a golf course. City Park West is great area featuring hip restaurants and a thriving coffee shop along 17th Avenue. This section of City Park also contains St. Joseph and Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Hospital. City Park ranges from 23rd Avenue to Colfax Avenue and from York Street to Colorado Boulevard. West City Park is bordered by 23rd Avenue, 17th Avenue, York Street and Downing Street.
Congress Park
An historic neighborhood in Central Denver, Congress Park contains a mix of Victorians, Denver Squares, brick bungalows, and other Denver single family homes and condos. There is something for everyone in Congress Park, which is reflected in the large range of home sizes and styles and the corresponding range in housing prices. Congress Park borders Josephine Street, Harrison Street, Colfax Avenue, and 6th Avenue. The neighborhood’s namesake, Congress Park, contains the Denver Botanic gardens, a playground for the kids, and an outdoor pool. Residents can walk to the re-developed section of Colfax that contains the new Tattered Cover bookstore and Neighborhood Flix Cinema and Café. Small retail areas throughout the neighborhood provide easy access to restaurants, coffee, and shopping. Congress Park is only a short ride from the Cherry Creek Shopping Center and downtown restaurants, bars, and sports stadiums.
Five Points
Five Points–an up-and-coming Denver real estate area located close to downtown–is diverse ethnically, socially, and economically and the homes in the area range in size from small one story homes to large mansions. Five Point’s Mestizo-Curtis Park was Denver’s first open public space. The historic Curtis Park section of the neighborhood contains beautiful old Victorian homes, many of which have now been returned to their original grandeur through extensive renovations. A number of new modern townhomes are also available in Curtis Park. The area is a great option for both those who love historic details and those who adore sleek modernism.
Highlands
The Highlands is another up-and-coming area just west of downtown Denver. The neighborhood is a mix of older Victorians, Tudors, and brick bungalows mixed with brand new condos and townhomes. Many young families have recently moved to the area, attracted by affordable prices and the new trendy urban shops and restaurants in Highland Square located at 32nd Avenue and Lowell Boulevard. While prices in and near Highland Square have increased in recent years, great deals can still be found in the surrounding areas of Sloans Lake and Berkeley.
Hilltop
One of Denver’s most elite neighborhoods, Hilltop offers a central location, luxury homes, and topnotch public and private schools. The neighborhood stretches from Albion Street to Holly Street and from Alameda Avenue to 8th Avenue. The historic Cranmer Mansion is located next to the park of the same name, from which locals take in breathtaking views of the city. Home prices in Hilltop range from the $400,000s to over $3 million. The architecture includes Tudors, bungalows, and custom-designed mansions.
LoDo
LoDo stands for Lower Downtown and is the perfect neighborhood for those who love big city living. Historic factories converted to modern lofts in Lodo and newly constructed buildings made up of trendy luxurious condos blend with restaurants, clubs, boutiques, galleries and office buildings. The Invesco Mile High Stadium, Pepsi Center and Coor Field sports stadiums are within walking distance as is the three-story Tattered Cover Bookstore located across the street from the Wynkoop Brewery. The six neighborhood breweries help satisfy Denverites love for local microbrews. Larimer Square and the 16th Strret Mall is the area to be seen on the weekends with many choices including a wine bar, Mexican restaurant, French bistro, or Rioja, one of the city’s top-rated restaurants. Residents who work downtown love their short walk to work. LoDo is
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bordered by the Platte River, Speer Boulevard, 23rd Street and Lawrence Street - and urban downtown living contributes to the LoDo lofts that are so popular.
Lowry
Built on the site of a former air base, Lowry is one of Denver’s newest neighborhoods. The development contains a mix of housing including single family homes, townhomes, and condos. The Lowry Town Center provides the convenience of food and coffee within walking distance. Stanley British Primary School, one of the best private schools in the area, is situated next to the Town Center. Other highlights of the neighborhood include a public park and indoor ice skating rink. While condos in Lowry start in the $200,000s, single family homes range from $400,000 to well over $1 million.
Park Hill
Park Hill is a family-friendly neighborhood that ranges from Colorado Boulevard to Quebec Street and from Colfax Avenue to as far north as 52nd Avenue. Park Hill borders City Park which provides easy access to playgrounds, picnic sites, the Denver Zoo, and the Museum of Nature and Science. Made up of mostly single family homes on tree-lined streets, a range of architecture can be found in Park Hill, including Tudors, Craftsmen, and Mediterranean styles. South Park Hill contains larger more expensive homes ranging in price from about $300,000 to well over a $1 million. North Park Hill contains smaller ranch style homes that start at about $200,000.
Platt Park
Named after the neighborhood’s small park, Platt Park is another historic Denver real estate neighborhood that is currently a mix of older homes and new construction. The neighborhood stretches from Downing Street to South Broadway Street and from Mississippi Avenue to Evans Avenue. Platt Park is home to Pasquini’s, a favorite local Italian Restaurant and borders on Denver’s Antique Row.
Stapleton
Located on the site of the old Denver airport on the eastern side of the city, Stapleton real estate is a young residential Denver real estate community with a commitment to pedestrian-friendly living. In 2004, Stapleton Redevelopment received the Best in American Living Award for Smart Growth. The quickly growing neighborhoods are filled with community parks, playgrounds, and bike paths. Stapleton redevelopment is also home to the Odyssey Charter School, one of the top elementary schools in the city. The Denver homes in the area consist of single family homes, condos, townhomes, carriage and row houses. In the new Stapleton Town Center you can grab a bagel, coffee, burrito, or even a stylish cocktail. The Bass Pro Shops is a big retail attraction for all Denver sportsmen. A second Town Center on the other side of the development is currently in the works. Single family homes start in the low $300,000's and run up to about $1.5 million. Condo prices start in the $200,000's.
 University of Denver
A lovely residential area surrounding the beautiful DU campus, this neighborhood is made up of historic bungalows and brand new built luxury homes. Move near the University and you can exercise at the Coors Fitness Center and attend performances at the Newman Center. University Boulevard contains a range of ethnic restaurants and clothing stores. The popular Jerusalem Grill is located here. Duplexes in the area start in the $200,000s while new Denver homes sell for closer to $700,000.
Washington Park
Washington Park is located in south central Denver and is named after the beautiful 161 acre park known to locals as Wash Park. The 165-acre park contains a duck pond, tennis courts, two playgrounds, four picnic areas, colorful flower gardens, and a bike and very popular running path that surrounds the perimeter of the park. East Wash Park is bordered by Alameda Avenue, Louisiana Avenue, Lincoln Street and Downing Street. West Wash Park is bordered by Alameda Avenue, Louisiana Avenue, Marion Parkway, and University Boulevard. Houses in Washington Park neighborhoods are a mix of old and new and range in price from about $350,000 to $2 million. Less expensive Denver real estate and homes can be found in West Washington Park, although there are some larger homes that sell for over $1 million. Residents love living near the shops and restaurants on Old South Pearl Street, including Sushi Den - considered by many to be the best sushi restaurant in the city. Homes in Wash Park are a short drive from Cherry Creek shopping and the Denver Country Club.
Denver Real Estate Buying and Selling Information...
Do you know what’s the #1 MISTAKE people make and the #1 COMPLAINT to the Colorado Real Estate Commission when buying or selling Denver homes for sale; especially buying Denver new homes?
Shockingly, it’s that there was confusion on the Purchase Contract and the Buyers or the Sellers got “screwed financially” because they didn’t understand or were not clear on the Contract they just signed! What's amazing is that only a small fraction of those complaints were filed against experienced Denver real estate brokers and agents or experienced Denver Realtors. The majority of the complaints in 2007 and the majority of people who get pissed during and after the closing used inexperienced or part-time Denver real estate brokers and agents - or NO Denver Realtor at all (…especially buying new homes in Denver Colorado!)
Wouldn’t you want experienced Denver real estate brokers and agents sticking up for YOUR legal rights when the Sellers or Buyers decides to try to screw you over financially - or if there’s a problem on the mortgage loan? Did I mention that I’ve personally closed nearly $100 million in real estate and mortgage loan transactions…and have always been able to negotiate or resolve every single problem we’ve encountered since 1998. I’m not saying that to brag, but instead to let you know that a professional Denver Realtors or Denver real estate brokers and agents representing your rights and helping you is absolutely mandatory, especially when problems come up!
Tell me about what price range of homes you're interested in and what part of town you want to buy in? Buying and selling Denver real estate is much more profitable when you hire me and when you send me the email form here...
Thanks again, I look forward to helping you.
Jeff Boyce
(303) 588-4665
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This article was written by Jeff Boyce and Risa Friedman. Risa works in the nonprofit sector as a writer and educator.and is a freelance writer residing in Denver, Colorado. Her varied interests include health, real estate, design, art, and food.
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