Why Winter Can Be a Smart Time to Buy a Home in Colorado

by Michelle Brown, CNE, SRS, SFR, RENE

When most people think of the ideal time to buy a home, they picture spring or summer. But in Durango and across Southwest Colorado, winter quietly brings unique opportunities that many buyers overlook.

If you’re serious about finding a great home — or even a better deal — here’s why buying in winter might be one of the smartest moves you can make this year.

1. Less Competition, More Opportunity

In the colder months, fewer buyers are out shopping. That means less competition, fewer bidding wars, and more room to negotiate. Sellers who list during this time are often motivated, creating chances for buyers to secure better pricing or terms.

In markets like Durango and La Plata County, where demand stays steady year-round, winter can still be active — just calmer and more balanced for thoughtful decision-making.

🏔️ Durango Real Estate Market Statistics (Winter Season: Nov 2024–Mar 2025)

Source: CREN MLS

Category	Beds	Active Listings	Avg. List Price	Median List Price	Avg. DOM (Active)	Median DOM (Active)	Total Listed	# Sold	% Sold	Avg. Sale Price	Median Sale Price	Sale-to-List Ratio	Avg. DOM (Sold)	Median DOM (Sold)
All (RE)	All	168	$2,197,569	$1,250,000	138	86	112	98	87.5%	$1,109,439	$905,000	96.09%	95	68
Residential (RE)	1 Bed	2	$704,000	$704,000	31	31	1	2	200%	$624,000	$624,000	94.56%	129	129
	2 Beds	8	$844,125	$712,000	55	48	13	8	61.54%	$706,937	$647,500	99.24%	61	38
	3 Beds	90	$1,410,193	$1,137,500	100	82	53	52	98.11%	$1,004,401	$890,500	95.42%	98	64
	4 Beds	51	$2,753,829	$1,600,000	153	89	36	32	88.89%	$1,374,833	$1,163,000	96.58%	91	79
	5+ Beds	17	$5,509,882	$3,750,000	347	197	9	4	44.44%	$1,399,500	$1,412,500	95.86%	126	138

📊 Key Insights (Winter Season)

Market Activity: 87.5% of listed residential homes sold during the period — showing strong winter activity.
Median Prices: The median sold price was $905,000, while the median list price stood at $969,500.
Pricing Strength: Homes sold for an average of 96% of list price, suggesting steady buyer demand even during the colder months.
Time on Market: Median Days on Market for sold homes was 68 days, with higher-end properties (5+ beds) staying active longer (197 median DOM).
Luxury Segment: 5+ bedroom homes have the highest average list price ($5.5M) but the lowest sell-through rate (44%), showing slower movement in the luxury tier.

2. Motivated Sellers Ready to Move

Sellers listing during late fall or early winter usually have a reason — maybe a relocation, new job, or they want to close before year-end. These motivations can lead to more flexible negotiations and smoother timelines, giving buyers an edge when crafting offers.

3. See How a Home Handles Cold Weather

Winter showings reveal what photos can’t. You’ll see how well a home stays warm, whether the insulation is effective, and how driveways or roofs handle snow. These real-world conditions can help you make a more informed decision before you buy.

4. Faster Closings and More Attention from Lenders

With fewer transactions happening during the winter months, lenders, inspectors, and appraisers often have more availability. That can translate into quicker closing times, more personalized service, and less stress during the process.

5. End-of-Year Financial Advantages

Buying before the end of the year may come with financial perks — from potential tax benefits to locking in a mortgage rate before possible changes in 2026. If you’re planning ahead, consulting with your lender or financial advisor can help you maximize these advantages.

Winter in Colorado: A Fresh Start

While others wait for the spring rush, smart buyers use the winter season to explore opportunities, build relationships with local agents, and find the right home without the pressure of high-season competition.

If you’ve been thinking about moving to Durango or Southwest Colorado, now might be the perfect time to take that first step — before everyone else does in spring.

💬 Looking for local listings or buyer guidance this winter?
Let’s connect. I can help you find the right home — one that fits your lifestyle, your budget, and your goals.

📞 Michelle Brown – Blackmore Group Real Estate
Your Southwest Colorado Real Estate Expert