Multi-Generational Homebuying Hit a Record High – Here’s Why

Multi-generational living is on the rise. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), 17% of homebuyers purchase a home to share with parents, adult children, or extended family. That’s the highest share ever recorded by NAR (see graph below):

And what’s behind the increase? Affordability. NAR explains:

 

“In 2024, a notable 36% of homebuyers cited “cost savings” as the primary reason for purchasing a multigenerational home—a significant increase from just 15% in 2015.”

 

In the past, caregiving was the leading motivator – especially for those looking to support aging parents. And while that’s still important, affordability is now the #1 motivator. And with current market conditions, that’s not really a surprise.

 

Pooling Resources Can Help Make Homeownership Possible

 

With today’s home prices and mortgage rates, it can be hard for people to afford a home on their own. That’s why more families are teaming up and pooling their resources.

 

By combining incomes and sharing expenses like the mortgage, utility bills, and more, multi-generational living offers a way to overcome financial challenges that might otherwise put homeownership out of reach. As Rick Sharga, Founder and CEO at CJ Patrick Company, explains:

 

“There are a few ways to improve affordability, at least marginally. . . purchase a property with a family member — there are a growing number of multi-generational households across the country today, and affordability is one of the reasons for this.”

 

But this strategy doesn’t just help with affordability. It may even allow you to get a larger home than you’d qualify for on your own and that gives everyone a bit more breathing room. As Chris Berk, VP of Mortgage Insights at Veterans Unitedexplains:

 

“Multigenerational homes are more than a trend: They are a meaningful solution for families looking to care for one another while making the most of their homebuying power.”

 

And momentum may be growing. Nearly 3 in 10 (28%) of homebuyers say they’re planning to purchase a multi-generational home.

 

Maybe it’s a solution that would make sense for you too. The best way to find out? Talk to a local real estate agent who can help you decide if this option would work for you.

 

Bottom Line

If your budget feels tight, buying a multi-generational home could be a smart solution. 

Would you ever consider buying a home with a family member? Why or why not? 

Connect with an agent to talk through your options.

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Redfin declares metro Denver a homebuyers’ market
Sellers outnumber buyers by about 42% and the imbalance is likely to increase

Metro Denver has moved solidly into the buyer’s camp, with home sellers outnumbering buyers by a widening margin, according to a report Thursday from Redfin, a Seattle-based residential real estate brokerage firm.

 

Nationally, there were an estimated 1.9 million home sellers in the U.S. housing market and an estimated 1.5 million homebuyers in April, according to Redfin, which works out to a 33.7% advantage to buyers. Metro Denver had 16,357 sellers active in April, compared to 11,526 buyers, giving Denver a 42% ratio in favor of buyers.

 

Nationally, 32 markets of the 50 examined were in the buyer’s camp. Denver ranked 19th, sandwiched between Los Angeles and Anaheim.

 

“At no other point in records dating back to 2013 have sellers outnumbered buyers by this large of a number or percentage. A year ago, sellers outnumbered buyers by just 6.5%, and two years ago, buyers outnumbered sellers,” noted Lily Katz and Asad Khan, authors of the report.

 

Cooper Thayer, a Realtor with The Thayer Group Keller Williams Action Realty in Castle Rock, said May’s numbers will provide more clarity when they come out in early June, but added he would “definitely agree” that metro Denver is now a buyer’s market.

 

“The ratio of buyers to sellers is skewed, and with more listings on the market, the smaller buyer pool holds even more leverage as sellers compete for attention,” he said in an email.

 

Sellers face the most pressure in southern Florida. In Miami, sellers outnumber buyers three-to-one, and West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale aren’t too far behind. Austin, Texas, is another glutted market, with sellers outnumbering buyers by 124%. And in Phoenix, there are twice as many sellers as buyers.

 

One contributor to Florida’s lopsidedness is a heavier preponderance of condos, which have seen a surge in insurance premiums and HOA dues following more severe storms and the collapse of the Surfside condo in July 2021, which killed 98 people, including Colorado resident Cassondra Stratton.

 

Florida also experienced a surge in population following the pandemic, which temporarily boosted demand and helped push up real estate prices. Some of those newbies, as well as longtime Canadian snowbirds, are wanting out.

 

Nationally, the condo market is the segment that has swung most solidly in favor of buyers, with 259,137 sellers vs. 141,223 buyers last month — an 83.5% overrepresentation by sellers, Katz and Kahn said in their report. For single-family homes, the seller overrepresentation is 27.8% and for townhomes, it is 33%.

 

Prices still aren’t falling in most markets that have tilted in favor of buyers, but if current trends hold and mortgage rates don’t fall and reignite buyer demand, then it is likely only a matter of time.

 

Redfin estimates that the median price of a home sold in metro Denver is down 0.1% over the past year, compared to a 1.6% gain nationally. Although it doesn’t have a forecast for Denver, it predicts home prices nationally will drop 1% this year and is advising sellers in Colorado and elsewhere to get moving before they lose the bargaining power they have left.

 

“Inventory is piling up as buyers are pulling back due to high costs and ongoing economic uncertainty. Prices are already starting to drop slightly with the median sale price down 0.1% compared to a year ago and likely to fall more by year-end,” predicted Chen Zhao, Redfin’s head of economic research.

 

Denver’s home price decline could be a rounding error, but it could also represent a tipping point. Zillow, which had predicted home price gains averaging 0.1% for metro Denver at the start of the year, now predicts they will fall 0.9% by next April.

 

But Zillow, in a report published Thursday, also shows above-average demand still at play in metro Denver. Listings in March had 6.2 engaged buyers in Denver compared to 5.5 nationally. About 32% of homes sell above the list price in Denver compared to only 27% nationally. Half of listings go under contract within 11 days compared to 17 days required nationally.

 

And the inventory of homes listed for sale in metro Denver remains below the historical averages going back to 1985, according to the Denver Metro Association of Realtors. But that gap is closing rapidly.

 
 
By Aldo Svaldi –  The Denver Post,

20 Ways to Celebrate Father’s Day in Denver and Across Colorado
Discover options for every kind of dad, from the grill master to the craft beer connoisseur.

Sunday, June 15 is a day to honor the impact that dads, grandpas, and father figures have on our lives. A new necktie may not fully capture how much they mean to you, but time shared over a special meal, well that might just fit the bill. 

To help you plan a meaningful outing, we’ve rounded up options for every dad’s unique taste. From classic steakhouses to limited-time specials and exciting food festivals, here’s how to celebrate Father’s Day in Denver and across the state. 

Father’s Day Favorites 

Guard and Grace Filet Flights

One of the best steakhouses in Denver, Guard and Grace offers a contemporary menu starring marbled prime cuts, grass-fed beef, and flavorful Wagyu. Sample all three oak-fired varieties as a $110 Filet Flight, selecting from enhancements like blue cheese butter and brandy-peppercorn sauce. Sides such as black truffle mac and cheese and raw bar selections including chilled king crab and crispy tuna sushi add to the available offerings. Save room for dessert, as chef Troy Guard’s triple chocolate chip cookies are too good to pass up. 1801 California St., guardandgrace.com

Savor Fresh Seafood at Water Grill

From its refined, rustic ambiance to the robust seafood selection, Water Grill is a winner for special occasions. Slide into a tufted leather booth and toast glasses of wine before tucking into signatures like its classic New England Lobster Roll ($38), Chilean Sea Bass ($55), and buttery Shrimp Scampi ($39). The menu also includes first-catch seasonal selections, such as wild Columbia River king salmon and soft shell blue crab, which are flown in extra fresh from Maryland. See them alive and kicking in the restaurant’s saltwater tanks. 1691 Market St., Denver, watergrill.com

Award-Winning Italian Fare at Tavernetta

Ranked among the city’s top Italian restaurants and a Michelin Bib Gourmand to boot, Tavernetta is an excellent choice for Father’s Day dinner. Come together as a family to celebrate and break bread — specifically, airy and crisp Focaccia ($7) dipped in good olive oil and served with creamy Burrata ($21) on a bed of trapanese pesto. Handmade pastas like its slow-braised lamb ragu with Rigatoni ($34) and flaky, citrusy Branzino ($40) pair deliciously with an all-Italian wine list, which was curated by master sommelier and Frasca Hospitality Group co-founder Bobby Stuckey. 1889 16th St. Mall, Denver, tavernettadenver.com

Laws Whiskey House Distillery Tours

Recognized by the 2024 World Whiskies Awards for producing the “world’s best small-batch bourbon,” Laws Whiskey House is a must for dads who love a good, stiff drink. Sample its spirits made from locally-grown grains at its new Whiskey Sanctuary or better yet, book an in-depth distillery tour. Beyond the hand-built wooden pews and two-story Gothic windows, guests are taken past grain silos and through the production facility, where they learn about the art and science of whiskey-making. The experience concludes with an intimate guided tasting and costs $25 per person, with each ticket including a $10 credit toward any bottle or merch in the tasting room. 80 W. Arkansas Ave., Denver, lawswhiskeyhouse.com

Riot BBQ, New Off South Broadway

With its June 5 debut, Riot BBQ will bring a fresh take on barbecue fare, blending the smoky asado customs of Northern Mexico and classic Texas-style techniques. Co-founded by chef Manny Barella and celebrated pitmaster Patrick Klaiber, the counter-serve concept will offer beef brisket tacos on locally sourced bison tallow tortillas; pulled pork infused with ancho, guajillo, and morita peppers; plus sweet banana pudding for dessert. Draft cocktails, self-serve beer taps, and a backyard cookout vibe add reasons to visit its new indoor-outdoor space. Bonus, Barella is a newly minted dad himself, so this year marks his first Father’s Day. 2180 S. Delaware St., Denver, riotbbqcompany.com

STK Steakhouse Wagyu Samplers

From Friday, June 13 through Father’s Day, modern chophouse STK will offer several specials including a Dungeness Crab Salad ($43), Sesame-Seared Ahi Tuna ($54), and a Prime Rib Surf and Turf entree ($79) served with charred baby carrots and salsa verde. Additionally, stake your claim on its limited-time Wagyu Sampler ($119) featuring Masami Ranch bone marrow, A5 prime dip, Stone Axe top sirloin, and Margaret River bottom skirt. The swanky eatery’s standard dinner menu and signature cocktails will also be available daily. 1550 Market St., stksteakhouse.com 

Grilled Specials at Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar

In addition to its standard menu starring Steamed PEI Mussels ($25), Chargrilled Oysters ($49 per dozen), and raw bar selections, this homegrown chain will serve several grilled seafood specials for Father’s Day. Savor Mangrove Tiger Shrimp ($13) with yuzu kosho aioli, scallions, and cilantro ($13); Colorado Whole Striped Bass ($47); or a juicy New York Strip (market price). Outposts appear in Denver, Glendale, Boulder, Fort Collins, and Colorado Springs. Multiple locations, jaxfishhouse.com

Elway’s Reserve Dinner with Breckenridge Distillery

On Wednesday, June 11 from 5:30 to 9 p.m., Elway’s at The Ritz-Carlton will host a luxurious Dad’s Reserve Dinner in partnership with Breckenridge Distillery. Begin the evening with a welcome beverage, followed by cocktail-paired courses including A5 steak tartare alongside caramel-rich bourbon, green chili lamb roulade with port cask whiskey, Colorado trout complemented by a rum cask whiskey, and more. The celebratory evening concludes with a cigar session on the restaurant’s terrace and a limited-edition bottle of Denver Broncos Bourbon Blend to take home. Book the experience for $300 per duo, with additional reservations available for $150 per person. 1881 Curtis St., Denver, elways.com

Bottomless Brunch at Latin American Eatery, Toro

Chef Richard Sandoval’s Latin American restaurant will offer bottomless brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Father’s Day. Enjoy unlimited antojitos and postres alongside your choice of one especialidades dish, such as pork belly tacos, huevos rancheros, and Colorado skirt steak with eggs and sweet plantain hash for $85. Free-flowing mimosas, margaritas, or Bloody Marys are available for an extra $25. After your feast, challenge dad to a “closest to the hole” contest on the eatery’s golf simulator and leave with a complimentary bottle of Toro’s signature BBQ rub or chimichurri. 150 Clayton Ln., Denver, torodenver.com

Urban Farmer Grill Kits and Dine-In Steak Specials

Set within the Oxford Hotel, this sustainability-minded steakhouse will offer three dine-in specials on Father’s Day: A 24-ounce Porterhouse ($140), a twenty-ounce T-Bone ($110), and an eighteen-ounce bone-in New York Strip ($98), all sourced from Omaha Prime Ranch. If you’d rather host a cookout at home, opt for Urban Farmer’s Grill Kit featuring three sixteen-ounce ribeyes, smoked and marinated chicken, tiger shrimp, and its signature prime rib rub. Homestyle sides like marbled potato salad, roasted corn, baked mac and cheese, and local greens complete the six-person feast, which is priced at $350. Pre-order by Friday, June 13 at 5 p.m. for pick-up on Father’s Day. 1659 Wazee St., Denver, urbanfarmersteakhouse.com

The Post’s Take-Home Southern Eats

Perfect for dads who love classic Southern fare, The Post is offering a $35 meat-and-three take-home meal featuring your choice of protein including a half roasted or fried chicken, a half rack of ribs, or an eight-ounce smoked pork shoulder. The meal also comes with three selected sides, a cherry hand pie, and two complimentary cans of either its house-brewed Townie IPA or Top Rope Mexican lager. If you’re looking to feed a crowd, pre-order the $110 “Throwdown” to-go kit including sixteen pieces of fried chicken, four large sides, eight rosemary-cheddar biscuits, pickles, and a complimentary four-pack of beer. Multiple locations, thepostcolorado.com

Whiskey and Cigars at Limelight Denver

Limelight Denver and the hotel’s signature eatery, Ajax Downtown, will host a special event in collaboration with Woody Creek Distillers and Palma Cigars. Starting at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, June 13, “Smoke & Oak” will involve whisky tastings, cigar rolling, and curated bites including dry-aged beef skewers and charcuterie on the Nordic Terrace overlooking Union Station. Tickets range between $75 and $125. Add-ons including a 32-ounce Dry-Aged, Bone-In Ribeye ($115) and Woody Creek whiskey will also be available for additional purchase. 1600 Wewatta St., Denver, limelighthotels.com

Munchies and Free Mini Golf at FlyteCo Tower

Find a range of entertainment at this family-friendly brewpub, from bowling lanes and sport suites to arcade games, axe throwing, and even free access to its eighteen-hole mini golf course on Father’s Day. Formerly part of the Stapleton International Airport, FlyteCo also offers tours of the historic 11-story air traffic control tower on-site. Fuel up for all the fun with an extensive food and drink menu, which will also include a $14 foot-long hotdog special served with a side of fries and your choice of select beer. 3120 Uinta St., Denver, flytecotower.com

Historic Ambiance at The Fort

Inspired by the American Frontier Era and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this adobe-built steakhouse will delight dads with a thing for the past. Those who love wild game will also feel right at home, as the menu features several regional specialties like Elk St. Vrain ($54) and Herb Butter Buffalo Tenderloin Filet Mignon ($75). From June 13 through Father’s Day, The Fort will also serve a $52 special entree including a twelve-ounce New York strip steak; small red potatoes tossed in caramelized onions, corn, and Anasazi beans; seasonal vegetables; plus a complimentary draft beer. 19192 CO-8, Morrison, thefort.com

An Italian-Inspired Brunch Buffet at Gattara 

On Father’s Day from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Gattara within the Warwick hotel will host a special brunch buffet featuring classic Italian dishes. Fill your plate with charcuterie and fresh salads; carving station selections including turkey breast, roast beef, and Jack Daniel’s-braised short ribs; risotto with Italian sausage and saffron; and more chef-curated bites. Desserts including lemon tarts, tiramisu, and macaroons will add to the celebratory spread, which is priced at $75 per adult and $25 per child ages eleven and under. 1776 Grant St., Denver, gattararestaurant.com

Eddie Merlot’s Gift Card Deal

From June 12 to 15, purchase a $100 e-gift card from this premium chain and receive $20 off with promo code “Dad20.” The credit can be used on the entire Eddie Merlot’s menu including its Bison Filet ($52), signature Prime Bourbon Ribeye ($72), and limited-time Tomahawk Trio for Two ($199) featuring a tender 32-ounce Australian Wagyu steak, two North Atlantic lobster tails, plus a red blend bottle from Daou Vineyards. If you’d prefer to feast with the family at home, order its Table for Five take-and-heat kit ($210). 10110 E. Dry Creek Rd., Englewood, eddiemerlots.com

Father’s Day Retreats

Sip and Celebrate at the Vail Craft Beer Classic

Toast to dad at the Vail Craft Beer Classic, which will host Grand Tasting sessions on Friday, June 13 from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, June 14 from 2 to 5 p.m. General admission starts at $59, while $79 VIP tickets provide thirty minutes of early access to samples from more than 35 local breweries. Food trucks, vendors, and live music will add to the excitement. For the ultimate experience, treat dad to the Bavarian Brews and Bites Package ($139) which includes lunch at the charming Swiss Chalet Restaurant, plus entry to Saturday’s grand tasting at 1 p.m. 141 E. Meadow Dr., Vail, vailcraftbeerclassic.com

 

A Weekend of Tastings at Telluride Food + Vine

This premier culinary event is packed with experiences, which kick-off on Friday, July 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. Attend the evening’s “Butts, Legs, & Sides” feast featuring fried chicken and Southern fixin’s, smoked heritage pork, and free-flowing bottles of champagne. The Grillin’ and Chillin’ event will follow on Saturday, June 14 from 6 to 9 p.m., involving a family-style meal and learning session from Iron Chef Showdown winner and James Beard finalist David Bancroft. Telluride Food + Vine culminates with the $275 Grand Tasting on Father’s Day from 3 to 6 p.m. Expect hundreds of sips from wineries around the globe, along with flavorful bites from the mountain town’s finest. W. San Juan Ave., Telluride, telluridefoodandvine.com

Share a Toast at Snowmass Rendezvous

On Saturday, June 14 from 2 to 6 p.m., Snowmass Rendezvous will entertain attendees with yard games, outdoor gear activations, vendor booths, and unlimited tastings from Colorado breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Priced at $45 per person, tickets provide access to two rendezvous points in beautiful Snowmass Village. Keep the spirits high with a free folk rock concert featuring Heavy Diamond Ring from 6 to 8 p.m. Snowmass Village, snowmassrendezvous.com

Clayton Hotel & Members Club Barbecue

Prefer a staycation? On Friday, June 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the posh Clayton Hotel will host a Father’s Day barbecue exclusively for members and overnight guests. Dads receive a complimentary burger, plus a chance to win a $200 gift card to New West Knife Works, one of many upscale retailers in Cherry Creek. 233 Clayton St., Denver, claytondenver.com

 
 
By Abigail Bliss

Understanding Today’s Mortgage Rates: Is 3% Coming Back?

A lot of buyers are pressing pause on their plans these days, holding out hope that mortgage rates will come down – maybe even back to the historic-low 3% from a few years ago. But here’s the thing: those rates were never meant to last. They were a short-term response to a very specific moment in time. And as the market finds its footing again, it’s time to reset expectations.

 

Back in 2020 and 2021, 3% mortgage rates gave buyers a serious boost: more affordability, more buying power, and more opportunity. But those rates were a result of emergency economic policies during the height of a global pandemic. Now that the economy is in a different place, we’re seeing mortgage rates in the high 6% to low 7% range.

 

And while experts currently project a slight easing in the months ahead, most industry leaders agree: rates are not going back to 3%.

 

Instead, many forecasts suggest mortgage rates will settle in the mid-6% range by the end of the year, pending any major economic shifts. As Kara Ng, Senior Economist at Zillow, says:

 

“While Zillow expects mortgage rates to end the year near mid-6%, barring any unforeseen shocks, that path might be bumpy.”

 

What Buyers Should Know

Basically, waiting for 3% rates might mean waiting longer than you’d expect – and missing out along the way. Instead of putting off homebuying indefinitely, make a plan to get there and focus on what you can control: your budget, your credit, and working with a trusted professional who can explain exactly what’s happening in the current market – and how to navigate it.

 

Your local real estate agent and a trusted lender make all the difference in this process. The experts have insights into down payment assistance programs, alternative financing options, negotiation strategies, and overall – the experience you need on your side to understand creative ways that will make your plans work.

 

And here’s the biggest thing to keep in mind. Since rates are projected to ease slightly later this year, if that happens, it could bring some more buyers back into the market. Acting now gives you a head start, especially with more homes on the market than we’ve seen in years.

 

Think about it: if mortgage rates do come down, what do you think everyone else is going to do? That’s right – they’ll jump back in too.

 

Getting ahead of that rush could put you in a stronger position to find the right home with less competition. Realtor.com sums it up well:

 

“Staying out of the market in hopes of a rate drop that never comes can lead to missed opportunities . . . Rising home prices, rent increases, and inflation might outpace any future savings on interest. And if rates do fall sharply again, buyers could face an entirely different challenge: surging competition.”

 

Bottom Line

Those 3% rates everyone remembers from a few years ago were the exception, not the rule.

Now that they’re settling into new territory, it’s a good time to adjust your expectations and learn more about where things are heading as this market shifts.

 

A local real estate agent and a trusted lender will be your best resources, always keeping you up-to-date and informed, so you can make sense of your options and build a game plan that works for you.

Denver unlocks $570 million to recharge downtown

The city of Denver is moving forward with a plan to revitalize its urban core.

 

Voters approved a ballot measure in November that unlocked $570 million to support downtown’s recovery, and the city has now opened a formal application process for potential projects to be awarded a portion of the funds.

 

The plan expands the Downtown Development Authority’s boundary lines to encompass all of downtown Denver. The DDA is a tool that sets aside a portion of property or sales tax collected within its boundary lines and then reinvests those funds into economic development within that area.

Established in 2008, the DDA is the vehicle that delivered over $400 million in restoration and public transportation projects at Union Station, one of Denver’s most iconic landmarks, located at the northwest end of downtown.

 

Since the revitalization project was completed in 2014, billions of dollars have been poured into developments surrounding Union Station. The city of Denver hopes to replicate Union Station’s success on a broader scale.

 

City leaders invited the community to submit ideas and opinions on how to best put the funds to work. Most respondents expressed interest in using the money for private redevelopment and adaptive reuse projects, according to the city. Overall, Denverites submitted a diverse range of projects for consideration, with one idea featuring a gondola system that would run throughout downtown.

A formal application process is now underway with a focus on major projects that would redefine the downtown experience and attract new residents, businesses and visitors.

 

City officials have zeroed in on a few criteria that will guide the use of this funding. New developments and adaptive reuse projects, primarily office to multifamily conversions, are at the top of the list.

 

The funding could make some of the conversions a reality. The combination of record-high office vacancies and a lack of affordable housing has made converting underutilized offices into apartments a seemingly obvious choice. However, real estate professionals noted that without a clear path toward economic funds, these projects remain economically unfeasible.

 

The city is also looking for projects that would create additional parks and public spaces, promote connectivity and mobility, and support long-term job growth.

 
 
By Jeannie Tobin –  CoStar Analytics,

Denver apartment rent growth hits 14-month high as historic construction wave eases

Apartment rent growth in the Denver area hit a 14-month high to close out the first quarter, though negative annual rent growth and widespread concessions are continuing to weigh on the market.

 

The average asking rent increased 0.6% in March, according to CoStar data, marking the strongest monthly rent gain since January 2024. The average rent for an apartment in the Denver market hit $1,842 per month in March, up from $1,823 per month at the start of the year.

 

While the vacancy rate of 11.3% remains near historic highs, vacancy likely peaked in the fourth quarter and is now on a downward swing due to a combination of higher levels of demand and a slowdown in construction. Denver’s apartment market is expected to continue tightening through the spring leasing season.

 

The first quarter was not all smooth sailing for area landlords, though. Monthly rents fell in February by 0.1%. While the decline was minimal, it marks the first February in more than a decade to see rents pull back.

 

Concession usage remains widespread across the market. About 41% of properties in the Denver market were offering some form of incentive, such as one month’s free rent, in March. This is down from 50% in February but remains elevated from a year ago when 25% of properties offered incentives.

 

Industry professionals note that renters are chasing concessions, leading to high tenant turnover. Renters can expect up to 10 weeks of free rent on a one-year lease in new apartment complexes. Concessions have also become increasingly common in well-leased, or stabilized, apartment buildings as property managers focus on shoring up renewals.

 

Until concession usage abates, landlords will likely continue to face difficulty in pushing rates.

 

Nearly all areas in Denver are reporting negative annual rent growth. The steepest declines are occurring in construction-heavy areas like Aurora, where rents are down 5.3% from the previous year. Downtown Denver has also reported heavy losses, with annual rents down 3.5%.

 

Looking ahead, CoStar forecasts that supply and demand will reach equilibrium in 2025. However, vacancies will likely remain high this year, and rents aren’t projected to return to the long-term benchmark until 2026.

 

 
 
By Jeannie Tobin  CoStar Analytics,

Denver Mother’s Day 2025: Ultimate Guide to Events, Gifts and Brunches

Save the date—Sunday, May 11, 2025! Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and we’ve got everything you need to celebrate in Denver. From one-of-a-kind gifts by local Colorado artisans to delightful brunches and elegant teas, our Ultimate Mother’s Day Guide has it all. Don’t miss our annual gift roundup, and keep scrolling for the best Mother’s Day events and brunch spots.

 

Bonus tip: We’ll be updating this list regularly, so check back often for the latest additions!

 

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Denver Moms 2025

 

Wellness Getaways

For experiential gifts, there’s nothing better than Colorado’s unique wellness getaways, retreats, programs and clubs. A few of our favorites: Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks offers Shinrin Yoku, the Japanese art of forest bathing, a research-based framework for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in forests. The Chipeta Solar Springs Resort, Ridgway – Chipeta Resort Spa offers a serene space with treatments inspired by the southwest and experienced therapists intuitive in the healing arts. Sacred Spaces, Cañon City, an apothecary in Cañon City, provides nourishment and healing through yoga/herbal medicine/gardening classes. 

 

Foodie Moms

From the chocolate connoisseur to the aspiring chef, the four-cornered state boasts a ton of options for those who want a taste of Colorado from home. Uncorked Kitchen’s fabulous classes have turned virtual with online cooking classes.  A unique idea comes from the eastern plains, where Lebanese-owned Scaff Brothers handcrafts a mild salsa with cantaloupe grown from the region. For the passionate carnivore, Sweetwood Smokehouse Jerky produces a slow-smoked, double-wide fatty jerky stick that’s a far cry from those sold in most stores today. Nuance Chocolate is a bean-to-bar chocolatier with a wide range of cocoa-based products made by admittedly certified chocoholics. Those with a sweet tooth will also get a kick out of Enstom’s toffee, which has been handmade with only the finest, freshest ingredients since 1960. The home bartender in your life will surely love The Real Dill’s Bloody Mary Mix, which uses cucumber-infused water—a byproduct of their pickling process—as its star ingredient. And for the home cook who likes to sprinkle in some history, the Anasazi bean is an heirloom-variety legume that comes out of an agricultural plateau in Western Colorado, once home to thousands of Anasazi Indians who cultivated the bean.

 

Art Lover

This Colorado Retro Travel Poster is a fantastic gift for the Colorado mama in your life. Artisans of Mancos is an artist-owned and managed cooperative featuring 20 artists, who have an array of hand-crafted items such as jewelry, leather items, calligraphy and stained glass. For the makers themselves, give the gift of an innovations studio art workshop from the Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Snowmass.  If your mom likes a challenge, Liberty Puzzles creates handmade wooden puzzles of Colorado’s most iconic mountain ranges – the Flatirons in Boulder and Aspen’s Maroon Bells (or get one custom-made). And last but not least, empower creativity with your kids. The Scarf Studio lets kids design smiler-maker gifts for Mother’s Day! Transform their artwork into a scarf that will last a lifetime.

Colorado Gift Box

Woman-owned and family-run, Mulay’s Sausage Specialty Gift Boxes offers a package that includes a wide variety of premium Colorado sausages and meatballs for meat lovers.  Colorado Crafted is a modern alternative to traditional gift baskets and offers collections of high-quality Colorado-made souvenirs, gourmet foods and artisan gifts packaged in a stylish box or tote.
 
For the Body, For the Soul
 
Pamper your loved ones with Body Restore Shower Steamers Aromatherapy Bath Bombs, handcrafted soaps (or soap-making classes) from Caramel Apple Farm, Lavender Hydrosol from Dayspring Farm, The Honest Company Honest Mama Me Moment Soaking Salts from the Dead Sea, or soy wax Magic Fairy Candles. Or, as part of a Colorado-cation, give the gift of luxurious spa treatments, a soak in natural hot springs or a solo retreat to Crestone’s Mountain Zen Center.
 

Denver Mother’s Day Events

 

Firefly Handmade Spring Market 
May 3–4, 2025
Start your shopping list now for inspired, one-of-a-kind gifts for Mother’s Day, graduations, teachers or yourself! The market will feature 80+ creatively curated artisans, including more than 20 incredible new artists, makers and designers. Admission is free and the market will also feature live music and food and drinks from local restaurants and bars. 

 

Baby Goat Yoga
May 10, 2025
Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with a unique and heartwarming baby goat yoga session. Scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Great Divide Barrel Bar, this event is perfect for moms, families, and animal lovers seeking a memorable experience.

 

The Northfield Street Fairs
May 10, 2025
Kick off Mother’s Day weekend by exploring the Northfield Street Fairs on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. This handmade-only art festival showcases local craftsmanship, including art, bath and body products, home décor, toys, and more. Enjoy a variety of food and drinks as you peruse Main Street from 46th to 48th Ave

 

Artisan Market 
May 11, 2025
 Denver Yoga Social’s FREE indoor 2-day event features 100+ artisans, makers & creatives each day, beer, food trucks, massages, baby goats, face painting & more.

 

Denver Mother’s Day 5K
May 11, 2025
Join this family-friendly run/walk at City Park on Sunday, May 11, 2025, starting at 9:00 AM. Participants will enjoy a scenic course, and female finishers receive a rose to celebrate the day. A pancake and sausage breakfast is provided for all registered participants. ​

 

Mother’s Day at Comedy Works South
WHEN May 11, 3 p.m.
WHERE: Comedy Works South at Landmark
Tammy Pescatelli’s: Way After School Special is the highly anticipated follow up to Tammy’s award winning special, Finding the Funny. You can find both of these specials on Amazon Prime. The albums of the same name were released and were in the TOP 3 spots on iTunes!

 

Mother’s Day Buffet Brunch at Denver Art Museum
May 11, 2025
Treat your mom to a delightful buffet brunch at the Denver Art Museum on Sunday, May 11, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Enjoy an exquisite meal in the elegant surroundings of the museum’s Sturm Grand Pavilion.

 

Colorado Chocolate Festival
May 9-10
Indulge in sweet treats at the Colorado Chocolate Festival, taking place on Friday and Saturday of Mother’s Day weekend. The festival features chocolates from various vendors, a Mother’s Day cake cutting, and fun contests like the Chocolate Crown Contest. It’s a perfect outing for moms with a sweet tooth.

 

Denver Potters Association Spring Show and Sale 

WHEN: May 8–11, 2025
WHERE: 3250 East Sixth Ave.
This highly anticipated biannual show will feature top local artists selling their work in a variety of mediums including ceramics, jewelry, glass, wood, personal care products and fiber. The show is the perfect place to find your Mother’s Day gifts and buy local!

 

Wash Park Home Tour & Mother’s Day Market Street Fair 
WHEN: May 10, 2025
WHERE: Washington Park
This long-standing community event showcases a unique mix of four distinctive homes in the East Washington Park neighborhood. Attendees can tour the properties at their leisure and enjoy local artisans, vendors and entertainment at the Mother’s Day Market Street Fair, conveniently located in the same area as the tour. This event hosted by Steele Elementary’s PTA raises funds to directly support many programs and services that make Wash Park’s neighborhood DPS elementary school a special place. 

Spring Horseshoe Market 
May 10, 2025
The day before Mother’s Day, this market is the perfect way to celebrate all the moms in your life with more than 120 local makers, vendors, vintage collectors, culinary artists, food trucks, mobile boutiques, live music and drinks and cocktails! Grab your friends and make a day of fun outdoor shopping in beautiful northwest Denver. Buy mom a gift, buy yourself gifts and shop locally and sustainably from Colorado small business creatives. The market is dog-friendly, family-friendly and free! Where:  50th & Lowell in Northwest Denver at Regis Campus.

 

Hangin’ N Slangin’ Markets 

May 10, 2025
Hangin’ N Slangin’ vintage thrift markets will be in RiNo, in the Lot on Larimer, on the second Saturday (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and last Sunday (12 p.m. to 7 p.m) of every month from March to November right next to the Denver Central Market! Events are always free to attend, and there’s always a great group of vendors, food and music.

 

Sloan’s Lake Spring Bazaar 

WHEN: May 10–11, 2025
WHERE: 1611 Raleigh Street
Spring is in the air and Denver BAZAAR is excited to return to Sloan’s Lake for Spring BAZAAR! This outdoor market will feature 80+ carefully curated vendors (including home goods, jewelry, sweet treats, clothing and self-care products), a live DJ, festive springtime sips and local craft beer, food trucks and street food and more! Admission is free for all ages, or upgrade your shop-and-sip experience with bottomless mimosas or a drink token package!

 

Second Sundays at Centennial Promenade with Artisan Markets 

WHEN: May 11, 2025 
WHERE: Centennial Promenade, Centennial
Welcome to Second Sundays at Centennial Promenade! A handmade-only event consisting of 70+ artisans, crafters and food experts from around Colorado. This art festival occurs every Second Sunday of the month, May through October. Bring the whole family to find incredible gifts, clothing and food for everyone to to enjoy! Parking is always free, and Artisan Markets’ events are pup- and kid-friendly.

 

Denver Mother’s Day Brunch

(Stay tuned; this list will be regularly updated).

 
 

Builder begins selling over 600 home sites in Thornton

An Arizona-based homebuilder has launched two home collections north of Denver, selling over 600 homes to a master-planned community in Thornton.

Taylor Morrison recently debuted its Horizon and Westerly collections at the approximately 800-acre Parterre community that is under development.

 

“This will really be the first large project coming to Thornton, and probably the only one for the next two to three years of this size,” Ricarda Dietsch, the Denver division president for Taylor Morrison, said.

 

The Parterre community attracted the homebuilder because of its location near E-470, according to Dietsch, and includes good schools nearby.

“It’s going to be a wonderful community, supporting really homeowners of all ages and stages of life,” Dietsch said.

The company’s Parterre Horizon collection features three- to five-bedroom single-family homes with up to three and a half baths. The collection includes four floor plans that span 1,606 to 2,989 square feet, Taylor Morrison’s website states.

The available townhomes, part of the Parterre Westerly collection, include two to three bedrooms and four choices of floor plans. The two-story townhomes range from 1,248 to 1,611 square feet. They include two-car garages.

The collections are two of five Taylor Morrison plans to launch at Parterre. The Westerly collection includes 387 units, while the Horizon collection includes 238 homes.

The horizontal work is underway for the other three collections, which are anticipated to come online in the spring of 2026. In all, Taylor Morrison anticipates bringing 1,125 homes to the master-planned community.

 

Parterre will later include pocket parks, trails and a recreation center, according to Hines’s website, the developer of the overall community.

Sales launched on Saturday for Taylor Morrison’s two collections and generated strong interest prior to the opening.

“We started marketing this community about a year ago … and we have over 400 people on our interest list,” said Asa Moncada, Taylor Morrison’s vice president of sales for Denver. “It’s definitely a strong number for when we open that community.”

The price tag of the homes is one of the reasons Moncada and Dietsch believe the collections received such strong initial interest.

The single-family homes in the Horizon collection have a starting price of just under $520,000, while the townhomes in the Westerly collection start at under $434,000.

“This is a much more affordable location, yet your ability to commute to job corridors is pretty amazing,” Dietsch said of the Thornton area.

Taylor Morrison will host a bluegrass festival grand opening event on May 31 for its two collections at 14885 Arbor Blvd. West in Thornton.

 
 
By Justyna Tomtas  –  Reporter, Denver Business Journal